Waiting for the Morning: A Mother and Daughter's Journey Through Alzheimer's Disease

Rating:
Summary: SACRIFICIAL LOVE
Review: 'Waiting for the Morning' accurately and honestly depicts the decline of Alzheimer's disease, each and every stage, along with the devastation imparted unto the caregiver in the process. Brenda's guilt emanates throughout: 'You pleaded with me to come home, so I did. Mama's baby came home, but you don't know me. I'm too late - Alzheimer's came first.' She blames herself for the natural progression of this hideous disease; while at the same time the reader is so acutely aware of her undying love for this woman who raised her. Brenda's pain is also evident: 'This is the hardest thing about Alzheimer's. Whenever she remembers that she has a daughter by my name, she worries about her - not understanding that I've been right here with her all along.' This part hit me hardest: the utter loss of her mother's awareness before her body left.

Each chapter tells the tragic story of a woman whose mind is breaking; whose switches are shutting down, one by one; and of the daughter whose unswerving commitment bears the brunt and the blame for everything which happens. Brenda's book is truly about exactly what she says in the beginning 'Learn from my mistakes; know that you are not alone; and most of all, cherish the time you have left with your loved one'. These words come from great wisdom, borne out of harsh experience and unfailing love; calling out to those who follow behind her in their own journeys. If you want to know the truth, read this book. Within its covers, the 'way in the wilderness' will become obvious to you. Brenda lived it - with her heart's intent being that you might be spared and enlightened as a result of the words which she penned.

Rating:
Summary: Joy also comes in the morning
Review: Waiting for the Morning is a wonderfully written journal by Brenda Parris Sibley. If you want to know what Alzheimer's disease is all about, this is a must read book! From the very beginning, when Brenda returns home to care for her mom, we can feel the constant roller coaster ride as she tells of her experiences. Brenda expresses her thoughts and emotions so well that you feel as if you are also right there! Her book clearly shows the love she had for her mother and the guilt which overtakes her as she cannot stop this dreaded disease. Her thoughts and feelings teach us to treasure each moment as a caregiver and the blessings that come with it. She also shows us that there is life after caregiving ends and we gradually find our way back into the world. Her poems are beautiful and the pictures make you feel as if you always knew her mom. There are many references for suggested reading, so together with her story, anyone who reads Waiting For The Morning will come away much richer and blessed!

Rating:
Summary: A profound, personal testimony
Review: Waiting For The Morning: A Mother And Daughter's Journey Through Alzheimer's Disease is a profound, personal testimony. Author Brenda Parris Sibly presents her poetry, caregiving journal, helpful advice for those who are struggling to adapt to caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's. Waiting For The Morning is sensitive, thoughtful, occasionally inspiring, and always highly recommended reading. Parting Thoughts: I didn't fix things/by being here,/and more of my trying/brought you much cheer./The flowers I planted/will be a mockery/if they bloom again/without you to see./There'll be no more Christmas--/no holidays again--/for you were everything/in my Christmas plans./I feel a cold chill/all the way to my soul,/but Mama, please know,/that I love you so.

Rating:
Summary: SACRIFICIAL LOVE
Review: `Waiting for the Morning' accurately and honestly depicts the decline of Alzheimer's disease, each and every stage, along with the devastation imparted unto the caregiver in the process. Brenda's guilt emanates throughout: `You pleaded with me to come home, so I did. Mama's baby came home, but you don't know me. I'm too late - Alzheimer's came first.' She blames herself for the natural progression of this hideous disease; while at the same time the reader is so acutely aware of her undying love for this woman who raised her. Brenda's pain is also evident: `This is the hardest thing about Alzheimer's. Whenever she remembers that she has a daughter by my name, she worries about her - not understanding that I've been right here with her all along.' This part hit me hardest: the utter loss of her mother's awareness before her body left.

Each chapter tells the tragic story of a woman whose mind is breaking; whose switches are shutting down, one by one; and of the daughter whose unswerving commitment bears the brunt and the blame for everything which happens. Brenda's book is truly about exactly what she says in the beginning `Learn from my mistakes; know that you are not alone; and most of all, cherish the time you have left with your loved one'. These words come from great wisdom, borne out of harsh experience and unfailing love; calling out to those who follow behind her in their own journeys. If you want to know the truth, read this book. Within its covers, the `way in the wilderness' will become obvious to you. Brenda lived it - with her heart's intent being that you might be spared and enlightened as a result of the words which she penned.