It has been such a relief and a blessing that there don’t have to be “secrets” any longer. You can’t over estimate the emotional energy spent keeping a secret like Alzheimer’s. A simple example of that effort: in conversation with another person about “whatever”, one has to be on guard against any statement that would lead the other person to inquire “why do you say
that?” or other such openings that might lead to the revelation of the “secret”.
Considering the opposite side, having no secret to keep one enjoys at least two immediate benefits. First of all (and perhaps most importantly) you’re free! After all, there is no longer any secret to protect. Secondly, you are no longer alone in the process, in life. Truthfully, this benefit has two sides (like a coin); you enjoy not having the burden of secret-keeping but what about the other person who intuitively knows something is out of whack? She or he no longer has to be on guard either.
The benefits of early diagnosis and or openness concerning that diagnosis are many. First of all, one enjoys the support from family and friends. How could they support you if they don’t know about the issue? One’s church family is a marvelous source of support as well as one’s “regular” family. Of course, the Alzheimer’s Association provides avenues for involvement and for participation. Their help line resource number is 800-272-3900.
Finally, having gotten a diagnosis, one is qualified for the newest medical interventions.
In each instance, Early Diagnosis is the key. Don’t worry, don’t wait! Take the blinders off!
From a Fellow Traveler,
Rod Stephenson
