Alzheimer's Blogging:
So today we get a call for a patient that fell out of his bed. As we arrive to the nursing home we find a 90 yr old man lying on the floor. Was told by the nurses aids, he fell out of his bed and complained that his head and neck was painful. That is until he saw us and than the pain went away. He lives in an assisted living with his wife. They have a two bedroom apartment. He was pretty agitated and didn't want to come with us. He fought us all the way as we took vitals, put on a c-collar and placed him on a soft back board. His son was the POA, and even though he wasn't there, he wanted his father transported to a hospital to get looked at.
This gentleman had dementia, knowing his name and his wife's name. He told me he had been married for 60 yrs. But he couldn't give me his age or birthday. He complained the whole way to the hospital that he was in pain especially every time we hit a bump on the road. This broke my heart.
Mostly what I was thinking was how much nicer it would be if a loved one would have been in the ambulance with him. He had to feel alone and scared. He didn't know me, and I was one of the mean ones making him go to the hospital. Just food for thought.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
Alzheimer's Blogging:
Merry Christmas
Today is Christmas Eve and yes I am at work. Since I work on an ambulance and the ambulance has to be on call 24/7 some one will always be on shift. It seems this year my rotation landed on today. I will get off tomorrow morning and spend the day with my family. I will miss going to church tonight and how I usually have Christmas Eve at my home, playing dirty Santa and watching It's A Wonderful Life. But I have my health, my family and a job. So I have no reason to be depressed.
Have you ever had a nagging feeling in your soul to do something and you don't know why but you follow through with it any way? I want to share with you a story about just that. It was Thanksgiving and I was already planning on what to get my kids for Christmas and all the things I had to do to prepare for the holiday. For some reason I had a nagging feeling to get a Christmas card off to a co-worker, and to put $100 bill in it. I know that last summer her 17 yr old child died, and she was still going through some depression from that. I also know that since the recession our company has put down hours and she is making less a month now.
Any way I followed my gut feeling and sent out her card before I did all the rest of the Christmas cards. Just yesterday I got a call from her. I was so surprised to hear her voice. The first thing she asked me was why did I send her some money? I told her I didn't know but, I had a nagging in my soul to send it and I couldn't rest until I did. She sighed over the phone and went on to tell me how hard it has been at her house since her hours were dropped. And that she had been fighting with her boyfriend about how to get the medicine for her son who has seizures. He told her that this month they were not going to be able to get this medication because it was to expensive and they just didn't have the money. She said they had just argued about this before she opened up my Christmas card. The money flew out on the floor and she said it was pennies from heaven. She was able to get her son the medication for his seizures which cost one hundred dollars exactly.
I am just writing this to say if you get that gut feeling to do something and don't understand why, don't question it, just do it.
I hope you have a great Christmas Holiday. Please stay safe out there. I don't want to have to be knocking at your door with my ambulance.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Publishing Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Merry Christmas
Today is Christmas Eve and yes I am at work. Since I work on an ambulance and the ambulance has to be on call 24/7 some one will always be on shift. It seems this year my rotation landed on today. I will get off tomorrow morning and spend the day with my family. I will miss going to church tonight and how I usually have Christmas Eve at my home, playing dirty Santa and watching It's A Wonderful Life. But I have my health, my family and a job. So I have no reason to be depressed.
Have you ever had a nagging feeling in your soul to do something and you don't know why but you follow through with it any way? I want to share with you a story about just that. It was Thanksgiving and I was already planning on what to get my kids for Christmas and all the things I had to do to prepare for the holiday. For some reason I had a nagging feeling to get a Christmas card off to a co-worker, and to put $100 bill in it. I know that last summer her 17 yr old child died, and she was still going through some depression from that. I also know that since the recession our company has put down hours and she is making less a month now.
Any way I followed my gut feeling and sent out her card before I did all the rest of the Christmas cards. Just yesterday I got a call from her. I was so surprised to hear her voice. The first thing she asked me was why did I send her some money? I told her I didn't know but, I had a nagging in my soul to send it and I couldn't rest until I did. She sighed over the phone and went on to tell me how hard it has been at her house since her hours were dropped. And that she had been fighting with her boyfriend about how to get the medicine for her son who has seizures. He told her that this month they were not going to be able to get this medication because it was to expensive and they just didn't have the money. She said they had just argued about this before she opened up my Christmas card. The money flew out on the floor and she said it was pennies from heaven. She was able to get her son the medication for his seizures which cost one hundred dollars exactly.
I am just writing this to say if you get that gut feeling to do something and don't understand why, don't question it, just do it.
I hope you have a great Christmas Holiday. Please stay safe out there. I don't want to have to be knocking at your door with my ambulance.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Publishing Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Alzheimer's Blogging:
Alzheimer's has many affects on people. Isolation I think is the biggest. Let me share with you my eventful experience on the ambulance yesterday.
I got a call for a man who tripped and hurt his left hip. We drove up to a care home. This is a house in a regular neighborhood, but the inside has several senior citizens living in side. We took out our gurney and walked up the walkway into the house. I asked one of the care givers what was going on and she told me to ask the gentleman sitting on the couch.
There was a man in his eighties sitting next to a women around his age. He told me he was coming to visit his wife of 32 yrs but he tripped on the lip by the front door and landed on his left leg. The women next to him smiled but her eyes told me she was lost. He looked at her with so much love in his eyes and reached for a kiss. She looked confused as he let his lips touch hers so softly and he told her he loved her.
Painfully we helped him on our gurney and went on our way to the hospital. I took his vitals, and got his vital information. Then I asked him if he was ready for the holiday. He looked at me with sad eyes. He informed me that they did not have any children and he was hoping to not be in the hospital for Christmas so he could spend it with his wife. Then he told me he was sort of lost even though he would be with his wife, his wife has no idea who he is.
Please if you know of someone who is taking care of a loved one with this disease, try and be there for them. They have a lot on their plate and could use any kind words of encouragement or even your company.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Alzheimer's has many affects on people. Isolation I think is the biggest. Let me share with you my eventful experience on the ambulance yesterday.
I got a call for a man who tripped and hurt his left hip. We drove up to a care home. This is a house in a regular neighborhood, but the inside has several senior citizens living in side. We took out our gurney and walked up the walkway into the house. I asked one of the care givers what was going on and she told me to ask the gentleman sitting on the couch.
There was a man in his eighties sitting next to a women around his age. He told me he was coming to visit his wife of 32 yrs but he tripped on the lip by the front door and landed on his left leg. The women next to him smiled but her eyes told me she was lost. He looked at her with so much love in his eyes and reached for a kiss. She looked confused as he let his lips touch hers so softly and he told her he loved her.
Painfully we helped him on our gurney and went on our way to the hospital. I took his vitals, and got his vital information. Then I asked him if he was ready for the holiday. He looked at me with sad eyes. He informed me that they did not have any children and he was hoping to not be in the hospital for Christmas so he could spend it with his wife. Then he told me he was sort of lost even though he would be with his wife, his wife has no idea who he is.
Please if you know of someone who is taking care of a loved one with this disease, try and be there for them. They have a lot on their plate and could use any kind words of encouragement or even your company.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
ALZHEIMER'S BLOGGING:
Merry Christmas!
If is so hard to believe that Christmas is only a few days away. My husband has a job now, after being laid off for almost two years. I work on an ambulance and as you may know the ambulance has to run 24/7 every day of the year. It seems that this year my shift runs on Christmas Eve so I will leave for work that morning and get off Christmas morning at around 8am and hopefully get home by 9am so that I can spend some Christmas time with my family.
What hurts is the fact as I go to some of the nursing homes, I see some of these elderly people sad and depressed with no family seeing them through the holiday season. Maybe they didn't have any children and their spouse has passed away. Maybe they had a falling out with their children and they don't care to see them. There are many reasons but it still hurts my heart to see these people so lonely.
Please if you have it in your heart, go see your family member that is living in a Nursing Home or a Rehab Center. Let by gones be by gones if just for the season. Put your self in their shoes and see how it has to hurt to be all alone. The nursing homes do well at trying to have little parties for the residents but that is not the same as having family around.
Be an angel and practice a little act of kindness :)
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Merry Christmas!
If is so hard to believe that Christmas is only a few days away. My husband has a job now, after being laid off for almost two years. I work on an ambulance and as you may know the ambulance has to run 24/7 every day of the year. It seems that this year my shift runs on Christmas Eve so I will leave for work that morning and get off Christmas morning at around 8am and hopefully get home by 9am so that I can spend some Christmas time with my family.
What hurts is the fact as I go to some of the nursing homes, I see some of these elderly people sad and depressed with no family seeing them through the holiday season. Maybe they didn't have any children and their spouse has passed away. Maybe they had a falling out with their children and they don't care to see them. There are many reasons but it still hurts my heart to see these people so lonely.
Please if you have it in your heart, go see your family member that is living in a Nursing Home or a Rehab Center. Let by gones be by gones if just for the season. Put your self in their shoes and see how it has to hurt to be all alone. The nursing homes do well at trying to have little parties for the residents but that is not the same as having family around.
Be an angel and practice a little act of kindness :)
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Monday, December 20, 2010
Alzheimer's Blogging:
Merry Christmas!
When I was going through this time taking care of my father in Law Joe, while the terrible disease Alzheimer's took control of his mind, I kept a journal. I was writing everything down, sometime e-mailing family, letting them know how he was doing, but writing for me. I had to be able to look back at how this terrible disease was taking him from me. I was amazed as I would look back at the pages of writing to see how he digressed. It was a hard roll at first to take charge of this man who taught me so much about life. But soon it became easier, as I watched him transform into a child like mind set.
Family members told me to put my pages of my journal into a book so I could help others dealing with this terrible disease. So I took their idea and did just that. What I love is when I hear from people who have read my book and tell me Thank you for letting them know they are not alone.
I hope I have helped others that I have not heard from.
Remember you are not alone. It is important to get respite care sometimes. If you don't take care of yourself how can you take care of your loved one. It is also important to have a good support group. I know, I have been there. God Bless You!
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint Of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Merry Christmas!
When I was going through this time taking care of my father in Law Joe, while the terrible disease Alzheimer's took control of his mind, I kept a journal. I was writing everything down, sometime e-mailing family, letting them know how he was doing, but writing for me. I had to be able to look back at how this terrible disease was taking him from me. I was amazed as I would look back at the pages of writing to see how he digressed. It was a hard roll at first to take charge of this man who taught me so much about life. But soon it became easier, as I watched him transform into a child like mind set.
Family members told me to put my pages of my journal into a book so I could help others dealing with this terrible disease. So I took their idea and did just that. What I love is when I hear from people who have read my book and tell me Thank you for letting them know they are not alone.
I hope I have helped others that I have not heard from.
Remember you are not alone. It is important to get respite care sometimes. If you don't take care of yourself how can you take care of your loved one. It is also important to have a good support group. I know, I have been there. God Bless You!
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint Of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Alzheimer's Blogging:
Merry Christmas. My mind jumps around to so many kinds of Christmas times I have had in my life. I remember as a child when my parents didn't want us to have anything to do with Santa Claus because they were afraid that would take the true meaning of Christmas away.
When I got married and had my first child my father in law, Joe would dress up as Santa Clause and on Christmas Eve when we were at his house Santa would make his way to Joe's house to see any kids that were there leaving them with a present and the promise that if they would go to sleep that night he would come by while they were sleeping with gifts for them under the tree.
We moved around a lot to different states away from family, and I tired to keep the little tradition of Santa coming by on Christmas Eve as much as possible. My kids always left cookies and milk out for Santa to enjoy as a way to say Thank you.
Now it is grandkids, my father in law has gone to heaven and no one plays Santa anymore. Maybe it is time for my husband to wear his fathers shoes and play for his grandkids.
I hope everyone remembers the true meaning of Christmas. It is when the virgin Mary gave birth to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint Of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Merry Christmas. My mind jumps around to so many kinds of Christmas times I have had in my life. I remember as a child when my parents didn't want us to have anything to do with Santa Claus because they were afraid that would take the true meaning of Christmas away.
When I got married and had my first child my father in law, Joe would dress up as Santa Clause and on Christmas Eve when we were at his house Santa would make his way to Joe's house to see any kids that were there leaving them with a present and the promise that if they would go to sleep that night he would come by while they were sleeping with gifts for them under the tree.
We moved around a lot to different states away from family, and I tired to keep the little tradition of Santa coming by on Christmas Eve as much as possible. My kids always left cookies and milk out for Santa to enjoy as a way to say Thank you.
Now it is grandkids, my father in law has gone to heaven and no one plays Santa anymore. Maybe it is time for my husband to wear his fathers shoes and play for his grandkids.
I hope everyone remembers the true meaning of Christmas. It is when the virgin Mary gave birth to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint Of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Alzheimer's Blogging:
Let me share this exciting new with you!!
Breaking News: NAPA Passed!
Dear Marie,
112,000 petition signatures, 50,000 emails, nearly 10,000 phone calls and more than 1,000 advocate meetings have led us to this momentous occasion. Just minutes ago, the United States House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA). This historic legislation is now on its way to the President for his signature.
Send an e-mail to the President urging him to sign NAPA!
http://www.kintera.org/siteapps/advocacy/ActionItem.aspx?c=mmKXLbP8E&b=6452651&sid=298468929&auid=7508258
Passage of this legislation is a hard-earned win for the hundreds of thousands of Alzheimer advocates across the nation. With your help, the Alzheimer's Association has made NAPA a top congressional priority - and a significant first step in ending the Alzheimer crisis.
In addition to the human impact on families, the economic burden of Alzheimer's - with total costs of care escalating from $172 billion to more than $1 trillion by 2050 - is simply unsustainable. NAPA will bring help not only to millions of affected families, but also to the fiscal foundation of our country.
In other news:
We Want to Hear from You
We want to make our advocate program the best in the nation - and we need your help. Take a quick survey to tell us how we can give you the tools and training you need to advocate for Alzheimer legislative priorities in your community.
Save the Date
As an advocate, you know the importance of using your voice to fight Alzheimer's disease. Now it's time to turn your passion into action with a visit to Washington, D.C.
Join us in our nation's capital May 15-17, 2011, for the Alzheimer's Association Advocacy Forum. Learn about the issues, discover new skills, network with fellow advocates and take our message directly to your members of Congress.
The Forum site will be updated with online registration, program and general information in the coming weeks.
I can't stress enough how important your efforts have been in moving NAPA forward. As a law, NAPA has the potential to change the course of Alzheimer's disease to the benefit of every American. You share a critical part of this historic victory.
Stay tuned for updates on NAPA as it goes to the President!
Sincerely,
Robert Egge
Vice President of Public Policy
Alzheimer's Association
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Let me share this exciting new with you!!
Breaking News: NAPA Passed!
Dear Marie,
112,000 petition signatures, 50,000 emails, nearly 10,000 phone calls and more than 1,000 advocate meetings have led us to this momentous occasion. Just minutes ago, the United States House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA). This historic legislation is now on its way to the President for his signature.
Send an e-mail to the President urging him to sign NAPA!
http://www.kintera.org/siteapps/advocacy/ActionItem.aspx?c=mmKXLbP8E&b=6452651&sid=298468929&auid=7508258
Passage of this legislation is a hard-earned win for the hundreds of thousands of Alzheimer advocates across the nation. With your help, the Alzheimer's Association has made NAPA a top congressional priority - and a significant first step in ending the Alzheimer crisis.
In addition to the human impact on families, the economic burden of Alzheimer's - with total costs of care escalating from $172 billion to more than $1 trillion by 2050 - is simply unsustainable. NAPA will bring help not only to millions of affected families, but also to the fiscal foundation of our country.
In other news:
We Want to Hear from You
We want to make our advocate program the best in the nation - and we need your help. Take a quick survey to tell us how we can give you the tools and training you need to advocate for Alzheimer legislative priorities in your community.
Save the Date
As an advocate, you know the importance of using your voice to fight Alzheimer's disease. Now it's time to turn your passion into action with a visit to Washington, D.C.
Join us in our nation's capital May 15-17, 2011, for the Alzheimer's Association Advocacy Forum. Learn about the issues, discover new skills, network with fellow advocates and take our message directly to your members of Congress.
The Forum site will be updated with online registration, program and general information in the coming weeks.
I can't stress enough how important your efforts have been in moving NAPA forward. As a law, NAPA has the potential to change the course of Alzheimer's disease to the benefit of every American. You share a critical part of this historic victory.
Stay tuned for updates on NAPA as it goes to the President!
Sincerely,
Robert Egge
Vice President of Public Policy
Alzheimer's Association
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Alzheimer's Blogging:
One thing you can rely on in life is change. I am looking back at my writings in December 2003. I had a lot going on at that time. I had my father in law suffering with Alzheimer's and a daughter going to Iraq to do her year tour.
Let me share with you December 27, 2003
Christmas is fun this year as we are trying to make it special in our new house in this new state. First, it is warm here. We lived in Oklahoma where the weather is always unpredictable--one day it's warm but the next can be cold. I remember putting up outdoor Christmas lights while bundled up in hat, coat and gloves one year and just a sweatshirt the next. Here in sunny Arizona, it is warm and Jessica and Regina are in charge of decorating the outside of the house. Jimmy is stringing lights on the roof and Adias is putting up our little Christmas town on the center island in the kitchen. Dad is sound asleep through all this.
Next is the chore of making Christmas cookies. I get plenty of help from Adias and, after they're baked, the girls all help Adias decorate them. Our tree is already decorated. Jennifer was told she wouldn't be here, so we celebrated Christmas early, in November. I got a small artificial tree this year and used patriotic decorations. This is the first time I have not had a real tree. I only had three of my children, along with my granddaughter, Adias, home for Christmas.
We are fortunate that Jennifer was able to come back for a few days at Christmas. We had church Christmas Eve and of course, watched It's A Wonderful Life. On Christmas morning we all opened our gifts. Dad just watched what was going on.
He took quite a bit of time opening his presents. He seemed to enjoy putting on his new hats but he really like the jars of cookies we wrapped up. Dad has always loved his cookies. I remember years ago, when Dad would just have coffee and cookies for breakfast before going to work.
The noise doesn't seem to bother him as he dozes off in his favorite chair.
Christmas dinner is always a delight with turkey and manicotti. This, of course, is still one of Dad's favorite things to do -- eat!
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
One thing you can rely on in life is change. I am looking back at my writings in December 2003. I had a lot going on at that time. I had my father in law suffering with Alzheimer's and a daughter going to Iraq to do her year tour.
Let me share with you December 27, 2003
Christmas is fun this year as we are trying to make it special in our new house in this new state. First, it is warm here. We lived in Oklahoma where the weather is always unpredictable--one day it's warm but the next can be cold. I remember putting up outdoor Christmas lights while bundled up in hat, coat and gloves one year and just a sweatshirt the next. Here in sunny Arizona, it is warm and Jessica and Regina are in charge of decorating the outside of the house. Jimmy is stringing lights on the roof and Adias is putting up our little Christmas town on the center island in the kitchen. Dad is sound asleep through all this.
Next is the chore of making Christmas cookies. I get plenty of help from Adias and, after they're baked, the girls all help Adias decorate them. Our tree is already decorated. Jennifer was told she wouldn't be here, so we celebrated Christmas early, in November. I got a small artificial tree this year and used patriotic decorations. This is the first time I have not had a real tree. I only had three of my children, along with my granddaughter, Adias, home for Christmas.
We are fortunate that Jennifer was able to come back for a few days at Christmas. We had church Christmas Eve and of course, watched It's A Wonderful Life. On Christmas morning we all opened our gifts. Dad just watched what was going on.
He took quite a bit of time opening his presents. He seemed to enjoy putting on his new hats but he really like the jars of cookies we wrapped up. Dad has always loved his cookies. I remember years ago, when Dad would just have coffee and cookies for breakfast before going to work.
The noise doesn't seem to bother him as he dozes off in his favorite chair.
Christmas dinner is always a delight with turkey and manicotti. This, of course, is still one of Dad's favorite things to do -- eat!
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Alzheimer's Blogging:
Let me share with you what I got from Alzheimer's Association.
On to the House!
Dear Marie,
Great news! Last night, thanks to the tireless work of advocates like you, the United States Senate passed the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA). The bill now moves to the U.S. House of Representatives.
But there's no time to rest. Now more than ever, we need your help to keep NAPA moving. Make your voice heard. Pick up the phone right now and tell your member of Congress to pass NAPA.
Call Representative Franks at (202) 225-4576 today!
Please let us know how it went!
Tell them: Hello, this is [name] and I am a constituent from [town].
•As you may know, today the Senate passed the National Alzheimer's Project Act.
•This bill will:
•Create a strategic plan to overcome the Alzheimer's disease crisis,
•Coordinate federal efforts to improve Alzheimer-related care, services and research.
•Please ensure that the National Alzheimer's Project Act is brought up for a vote in the House during the lame duck session.
•Finally, I would like to personally request that the Representative vote YES on the National Alzheimer's Project Act (S. 3036) - which will take the first steps in the fight against Alzheimer's, but will not require any additional federal spending.
•On behalf of the Alzheimer community, thank you for your leadership. I look forward to hearing from the Representative regarding his/her vote on this critical bill.
We are so close to making this bill become a reality. Please send a message to Congress that Alzheimer's disease cannot be ignored.
Sincerely,
Robert Egge
Vice President of Public Policy
Alzheimer's Association
P.S.: Want to get more involved? The Alzheimer's Association Advocacy Forum is the perfect opportunity to share your story with your elected officials. Join us in Washington, D.C., May 15-17, 2011, to lend your voice in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. Please visit www.alz.org/forum to learn more about how you can make a difference.
The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Let me share with you what I got from Alzheimer's Association.
On to the House!
Dear Marie,
Great news! Last night, thanks to the tireless work of advocates like you, the United States Senate passed the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA). The bill now moves to the U.S. House of Representatives.
But there's no time to rest. Now more than ever, we need your help to keep NAPA moving. Make your voice heard. Pick up the phone right now and tell your member of Congress to pass NAPA.
Call Representative Franks at (202) 225-4576 today!
Please let us know how it went!
Tell them: Hello, this is [name] and I am a constituent from [town].
•As you may know, today the Senate passed the National Alzheimer's Project Act.
•This bill will:
•Create a strategic plan to overcome the Alzheimer's disease crisis,
•Coordinate federal efforts to improve Alzheimer-related care, services and research.
•Please ensure that the National Alzheimer's Project Act is brought up for a vote in the House during the lame duck session.
•Finally, I would like to personally request that the Representative vote YES on the National Alzheimer's Project Act (S. 3036) - which will take the first steps in the fight against Alzheimer's, but will not require any additional federal spending.
•On behalf of the Alzheimer community, thank you for your leadership. I look forward to hearing from the Representative regarding his/her vote on this critical bill.
We are so close to making this bill become a reality. Please send a message to Congress that Alzheimer's disease cannot be ignored.
Sincerely,
Robert Egge
Vice President of Public Policy
Alzheimer's Association
P.S.: Want to get more involved? The Alzheimer's Association Advocacy Forum is the perfect opportunity to share your story with your elected officials. Join us in Washington, D.C., May 15-17, 2011, to lend your voice in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. Please visit www.alz.org/forum to learn more about how you can make a difference.
The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
ALZHEIMER'S BLOGGING:
MERRY CHRISTMAS: Yep you are going to see me write this as often as I blog this month. What a privilege to celebrate this holiday. This is when our Lord decided to come to earth as a human and be born from a virgin to hang around with man. How disappointed he had to have been. But we still have the promise to have everlasting life after we ask Jesus into our lives.
I have been blogging for a long time now. I am not sure if anyone is really reading this. I just know that I am running out of things to say. I mean I have written different web sites for information. I have written some things out of my journal. I have written some of the things I have seen while on my ambulance that has to do with an elderly person with dementia/ Alzheimer's. I have written any thoughts I came up with whether positive or negative. I have tried to raise money for the Alzheimer's Memory Walk.
I guess all I have to say today, is as I sit and watch my grand babies, my mind goes back to the past when my father in law was young and fun. As my mind travels through time I see him getting confused and finally his mind is gone. I have some regrets, and I have some precious moments that I carry in my heart. I know that you have the same thing. You have a story and it is special to you. Your loved one that passed away with this terrible disease was a special person to you. If your loved one is alive and you are taking care of them know, I understand how stressed you are sometimes. Some of you are watching your loved one at home wondering if you will ever know what sleep is like again. Some of you have your loved one in a nursing home feeling guilty because you can't take care of them. These are all human feelings. Make peace with yourself. You are doing the best you can. If you feel the need to let out some of those pinned up feelings please write me and I will put it on this blog for all. Anything you have to say will help someone out there. Mean while please find a good support group. It is important to vent and to forgive yourself.
Merry Christmas. We are so lucky that we can celebrate the birth of our Lord Savior. He is holding you.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
MERRY CHRISTMAS: Yep you are going to see me write this as often as I blog this month. What a privilege to celebrate this holiday. This is when our Lord decided to come to earth as a human and be born from a virgin to hang around with man. How disappointed he had to have been. But we still have the promise to have everlasting life after we ask Jesus into our lives.
I have been blogging for a long time now. I am not sure if anyone is really reading this. I just know that I am running out of things to say. I mean I have written different web sites for information. I have written some things out of my journal. I have written some of the things I have seen while on my ambulance that has to do with an elderly person with dementia/ Alzheimer's. I have written any thoughts I came up with whether positive or negative. I have tried to raise money for the Alzheimer's Memory Walk.
I guess all I have to say today, is as I sit and watch my grand babies, my mind goes back to the past when my father in law was young and fun. As my mind travels through time I see him getting confused and finally his mind is gone. I have some regrets, and I have some precious moments that I carry in my heart. I know that you have the same thing. You have a story and it is special to you. Your loved one that passed away with this terrible disease was a special person to you. If your loved one is alive and you are taking care of them know, I understand how stressed you are sometimes. Some of you are watching your loved one at home wondering if you will ever know what sleep is like again. Some of you have your loved one in a nursing home feeling guilty because you can't take care of them. These are all human feelings. Make peace with yourself. You are doing the best you can. If you feel the need to let out some of those pinned up feelings please write me and I will put it on this blog for all. Anything you have to say will help someone out there. Mean while please find a good support group. It is important to vent and to forgive yourself.
Merry Christmas. We are so lucky that we can celebrate the birth of our Lord Savior. He is holding you.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Monday, December 6, 2010
ALZHEIMER'S BLOGGING:
Merry Christmas:
Hard to believe that it is December already. Seems like when I was a child the days lasted forever. Than as I became a young mother I didn't really notice how long the days were being so busy with 5 small children. At the time I was so busy, with no time for myself I thought that it was going to be this way for ever. Believe it or not all five children grew up and all of a sudden it was just me and Jimmy. Of course in there we took care of Joe with his Alzheimer's so I was still busy. But after he passed away I didn't know what to do with myself.
Well dad has been gone now for seven years and my kids have gotten married and I have six grandchildren with another one on the way. I am busy again. Only this time it is with grandchildren. This will seem funny to you, but when I baby sit, and go on walks and play at the park I forget that I am in my fifties. I am back to being thirty again and a young mother.
It is amazing how time flies. I dream back into time when Joe and Jean were still alive and the four of us would go out to dinner or the fun at the family get togethers. Enjoy your loved one. Time doesn't wait for anyone, and soon enough they will be gone leaving you with memories.
It is even difficult thinking that soon we will be the old ones. Our youth has gone and the oldness of the world is slamming against us telling us our time is coming soon. Enjoy your family and make wonderful memories for your children and grandchildren to hang on to when your time comes to go home.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Merry Christmas:
Hard to believe that it is December already. Seems like when I was a child the days lasted forever. Than as I became a young mother I didn't really notice how long the days were being so busy with 5 small children. At the time I was so busy, with no time for myself I thought that it was going to be this way for ever. Believe it or not all five children grew up and all of a sudden it was just me and Jimmy. Of course in there we took care of Joe with his Alzheimer's so I was still busy. But after he passed away I didn't know what to do with myself.
Well dad has been gone now for seven years and my kids have gotten married and I have six grandchildren with another one on the way. I am busy again. Only this time it is with grandchildren. This will seem funny to you, but when I baby sit, and go on walks and play at the park I forget that I am in my fifties. I am back to being thirty again and a young mother.
It is amazing how time flies. I dream back into time when Joe and Jean were still alive and the four of us would go out to dinner or the fun at the family get togethers. Enjoy your loved one. Time doesn't wait for anyone, and soon enough they will be gone leaving you with memories.
It is even difficult thinking that soon we will be the old ones. Our youth has gone and the oldness of the world is slamming against us telling us our time is coming soon. Enjoy your family and make wonderful memories for your children and grandchildren to hang on to when your time comes to go home.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Friday, December 3, 2010
Alzheimer's Blogging:
So it is that time of year to decorate your house for that wonderful Christmas spirit. My daughter Regina helped me string up lights around the house with the sounds of Christmas music in the background. But my mind jumped to the first Christmas we had in this house when we moved here with Grandpa Joe. We moved him here to sunny Arizona after his mind made him forget where he was. He had no idea we moved and no idea we weren't in his house anymore.
It was December 2003, with my daughters Jessica and Regina putting up the lights outside in the front yard. My husband was stringing lights up on the roof and my granddaughter was in charge of putting up our little Christmas Village on the center island in the kitchen.
My father in law was sitting in his favorite chair fast asleep. It is a wonderful / sad memory. That was the last Christmas we were able to enjoy with him.
Yet as I think about my father in law, my heart jumps with joy at the times he acted as Santa Clause for my children when they were young.
It is a part of life to grow old. We don't ask to grow old, and we are not happy when we have trouble remembering things but unfortunately that is a part of life.
Remember life is short. Don't put off tomorrow what you can do today and tell someone you love them.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
So it is that time of year to decorate your house for that wonderful Christmas spirit. My daughter Regina helped me string up lights around the house with the sounds of Christmas music in the background. But my mind jumped to the first Christmas we had in this house when we moved here with Grandpa Joe. We moved him here to sunny Arizona after his mind made him forget where he was. He had no idea we moved and no idea we weren't in his house anymore.
It was December 2003, with my daughters Jessica and Regina putting up the lights outside in the front yard. My husband was stringing lights up on the roof and my granddaughter was in charge of putting up our little Christmas Village on the center island in the kitchen.
My father in law was sitting in his favorite chair fast asleep. It is a wonderful / sad memory. That was the last Christmas we were able to enjoy with him.
Yet as I think about my father in law, my heart jumps with joy at the times he acted as Santa Clause for my children when they were young.
It is a part of life to grow old. We don't ask to grow old, and we are not happy when we have trouble remembering things but unfortunately that is a part of life.
Remember life is short. Don't put off tomorrow what you can do today and tell someone you love them.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
ALZHEIMER'S BLOGGING:
I would like to share this letter I got today!
NAPA on the MOVE!
Dear Marie,
Today, Congress took a critical step toward addressing Alzheimer's disease, the public health crisis of the 21st century. In January, the baby boomer generation will begin to turn 65, entering the years of greatly increased risk for Alzheimer's. One in eight baby boomers, or 10 million Americans, will develop Alzheimer's. Yet our nation lacks a national plan to overcome this epidemic.
The National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA) provides a path to the solution: a coordinated strategic plan to confront this crisis. Today, the Senate Committee responsible for NAPA took action on the bill. This is the final step before securing a Senate vote. Please take action today to ensure that NAPA reaches the Senate for a vote.
Call them with the information below:
Sen. John McCain III
Phone: (202) 224-2235
Sen. Jon Kyl
Phone: (202) 224-4521
With your help, we can secure a vote on NAPA during the next 48 hours. Take five minutes today to call your Senators and urge them to pass NAPA - and let them know how important this issue is to the Alzheimer community.
Tell them: Hello, this is [name] and I am a constituent from [town].
•As you may know, today the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) committee considered the National Alzheimer's Project Act (S. 3036).
•This bill will create:
•A strategic plan to overcome the Alzheimer's disease crisis
•Coordinated federal efforts to enhance Alzheimer-related care, services, and research
•Please ask the Senator to ensure that the National Alzheimer's Project Act is brought up for a vote in the Senate during the lame duck session.
•Finally, I would like to personally request that the Senator vote YES on the National Alzheimer's Project Act (S. 3036) - which will take the first steps in the fight against Alzheimer's, but will not require any additional federal spending.
•On behalf of the Alzheimer community, thank you for your leadership. I look forward to hearing from the Senator regarding their vote on this critical bill.
Please let us know how it went!
Thank you for your support. Together, we can make the Senate hear our voice and work toward a world without Alzheimer's.
Stay tuned for more updates about this legislation.
Sincerely,
Robert Egge
Vice President of Public Policy
Alzheimer's Association
P.S.: Want to get more involved? The Alzheimer's Association Advocacy Forum is the perfect opportunity to share your story with your elected officials. Join us in Washington, D.C., May 15-17, 2011, to lend your voice in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. Please visit www.alz.org/forum to learn more about how you can make a difference.
The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
I would like to share this letter I got today!
NAPA on the MOVE!
Dear Marie,
Today, Congress took a critical step toward addressing Alzheimer's disease, the public health crisis of the 21st century. In January, the baby boomer generation will begin to turn 65, entering the years of greatly increased risk for Alzheimer's. One in eight baby boomers, or 10 million Americans, will develop Alzheimer's. Yet our nation lacks a national plan to overcome this epidemic.
The National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA) provides a path to the solution: a coordinated strategic plan to confront this crisis. Today, the Senate Committee responsible for NAPA took action on the bill. This is the final step before securing a Senate vote. Please take action today to ensure that NAPA reaches the Senate for a vote.
Call them with the information below:
Sen. John McCain III
Phone: (202) 224-2235
Sen. Jon Kyl
Phone: (202) 224-4521
With your help, we can secure a vote on NAPA during the next 48 hours. Take five minutes today to call your Senators and urge them to pass NAPA - and let them know how important this issue is to the Alzheimer community.
Tell them: Hello, this is [name] and I am a constituent from [town].
•As you may know, today the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) committee considered the National Alzheimer's Project Act (S. 3036).
•This bill will create:
•A strategic plan to overcome the Alzheimer's disease crisis
•Coordinated federal efforts to enhance Alzheimer-related care, services, and research
•Please ask the Senator to ensure that the National Alzheimer's Project Act is brought up for a vote in the Senate during the lame duck session.
•Finally, I would like to personally request that the Senator vote YES on the National Alzheimer's Project Act (S. 3036) - which will take the first steps in the fight against Alzheimer's, but will not require any additional federal spending.
•On behalf of the Alzheimer community, thank you for your leadership. I look forward to hearing from the Senator regarding their vote on this critical bill.
Please let us know how it went!
Thank you for your support. Together, we can make the Senate hear our voice and work toward a world without Alzheimer's.
Stay tuned for more updates about this legislation.
Sincerely,
Robert Egge
Vice President of Public Policy
Alzheimer's Association
P.S.: Want to get more involved? The Alzheimer's Association Advocacy Forum is the perfect opportunity to share your story with your elected officials. Join us in Washington, D.C., May 15-17, 2011, to lend your voice in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. Please visit www.alz.org/forum to learn more about how you can make a difference.
The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com
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