John’s Dementia Vlog - Support from others - Star Trek and the big slowdown - lowering expectations

My sister Hetty loves that I sign off some of my videos with "stay strong, you’re not alone" so she had a T-shirt made! How fun is that?
In this video, I talk a little bit about how bewildered I was when I first came to the realization of what was going on, and how I reached out to friends, family, and the Alzheimer’s Association, and how big a relief it was to connect with people. I bring that forward to today where I’m just blown away at the support from all of you here on this KZbin channel. It means the world to me and I’m so happy to know that there’s a desire and a hunger for empathy based and kindness based content.
In the second part of the video, I talk about how life has slowed down to such a drastic degree. I’ve just really lowered my expectations and made my world much smaller and it allows me to navigate this with my personality intact. 
Again, my friends, thank you so much for coming along on this journey with myself and Heather. We really appreciate you. Stay strong, you’re not alone.
Meow meow… J&H

[@rrichardson53]

I’m SO glad you make these videos for all of us to watch so that “we don’t feel like we are alone” although many of us don’t have as much personal support as we so desperately need. You are very articulate and uplifting. I’m glad your channel is growing.

[@carolweston9163]

Thank you for putting out these vlogs. They must be such a help to the many caregivers out there. Bless you

[@god1bless]

My 85 year old dad is taking care of my 86 year old mom, now with our daily support but her stage 5 Alzheimer’s is progressing on a downward slope. So much of what you shared today is right where my dad is. A small circle. I do so enjoy your checking in. Know you are not alone.

[@jenniferrobinson1792]

John, your channel is helping thousands more people than those who have subscribed to it. You are giving Heather what she needs - humor, love, warmth, and a soft place to land.

[@CynthiaWord-iq7in]

Ron Reagan Jr. said at one point, in the early 90s that his Dad in 24hr care, had not uttered a sound, or moved a finger or recognized & reacted to any human being in well over 5 years at that point. Stunning.

[@SarahBrownell]

I have just recently started watching your channel, and I am so thankful for your input, candor , and empathy. My husband is not quite as far along on his journey as Heather, so I benefit from seeing what is ahead by your videos. I am trying your exercize of smiling regardless of how I really feel , and it really helps. Thank you for the Star Trek part, my life, too, is slowed down and focused on this one dreadful situation we are in. So to finish off the moment or day.....I say `BEAM ME UP, SCOTTY` and just keep on keeping on.

[@JohnvanGurp]

Love it!😊

[@krisbandle3989]

“My world is small” was so relatable. My wife has EO Alzheimer’s. She’s 54 and in stage 6. I just found this channel and looking forward to watching more. I plan to care for my wife as long as possible also.

[@JohnvanGurp]

@@krisbandle3989 oh wow, that’s rough. 54… My heart goes out to you. Hang in there and do what feels right. Best wishes to you both.

[@amyberg1413]

John, love your openness and honesty. It can not be easy, so glad we are all here to help, if only in thought and following along.

[@riccosuave2761]

Another great inspirational chat, thank you for adoring your wife.

[@SuperAngela40]

I believe that Star Trek is the original series episode 11 of season 3 entitled “wink of an eye” . I love Star Trek ❤. Best wishes for you in the daily care of your wife 🙏🏻

[@kristiemowry3267]

Impressive

[@SuperAngela40]

@@kristiemowry3267 sadly no just Google 🤣

[@lizstohlman381]

God Bless you! Yes it’s a downward slope. Look at getting a sit to stand lift. It was a lifesaver for us in getting mom out of bed and into her wheelchair or onto the commode.

[@pamelamaclean9018]

I'm here for you Buddy, anytime. You are not alone and you make me feel not alone. Thanks for that. I get the slow thing, yes life has slowed down.

[@danielsiminski5878]

It is sad, but you will need help....it'll make both of your lives soo much easier....Sending HUGS!

[@BarbaraNakao]

Thank you for talking about life slowing down. We used to have a big life. We both played in the symphony. Made jewelry and attended art shows with all my painter friends. Traveled and entertained. Now I feel like my life is over and almost feel like a slave. I also want to keep my husband home as long as possible. It’s very expensive here and the care is not that great. Some days I cry. It’s been six years now. I’m sad most of the time. Our friends have disappeared

[@JohnvanGurp]

My heart goes out to you.

[@nancisailormoy9135]

I think Heather would be very proud of how you are handling all this and how many people you are helping by sharing her story. You might need to set up a merch link for tshirts to share the message

[@JohnvanGurp]

Thank you so much for that vote of confidence… Every once in a very rare while I get a critical comment about the sharing. I try not to take it to heart, and comments like yours make me feel much better about it all.

[@funinthesun622]

​@JohnvanGurp you are doing a beautiful thing for so many people. The negative Nellie's have issues 😊

[@Mari-B]

Just know we are here for you. Those of us who have been through this really understand how difficult it can be, and we need ways of letting it all out.

[@shaynecoyne4789]

Hi John, I recently found your vlogs. I think it was through a referral on a similar vlog. Your journey sounds so similar to that of the bride (of 40 years) and myself. We seem to be around the same vintage and we’re both doing the best we can to ensure our partners stay safe, cared for, happy and loved. This vlog in particular hit home. As a caregivers we make the decision to make our world smaller, more manageable, with fewer gates of entry to ensure only positive influences enter this bubble we’ve made to protect our loved ones. And yes, life does move at different pace. Chores / tasks should take me a few hours to complete can now take a week or more, if it gets done at all. Like you I have a daughter (school teacher) who is a wonderful source of support, help and advice. Although I “think” I don’t need it, my daughter not only offers support to her mum, but also me, her dad. She feels she has to care for both her parents. I try not to let her mums condition impact too greatly on her life, but I’m glad she’s there. As a caregiver your focus is always on your loved one, and not yourself. I live in Australia, and like Canada we have some wonderful support mechanisms to assist people with disabilities. I recently engaged a support person (6 months now), and she is wonderful, and I’m just now making my personal bubble a little bigger. In hind sight I should have done this earlier. At first I felt guilty about taking some personal time to play golf, or just go out for a coffee, but after a few months I’m starting to come to terms with it. John Lyndon (Johnny rotten) from the sex pistols (a 70’s UK punk band) also became a caregiver to his wife Nora (she also had alzheimers), and like most people made his world small. He eventually engaged a support worker, and said he wished he did it earlier. Not only did the support provide him some respite, she also enriched his wife’s life (additional female companionship). The bride was diagnosed at 55, 7 years ago and until recently I was with her 24/7. I left work at 55, and I’m fortunate enough to be able to manage financially, but it’s a tough gig, and Coral (the bride) is very easy to care for compared some peoples challenges. I really feel compassion for other caregivers that have it more difficult. Anyway I’m waffling now. Stay strong, you’re not alone is a great message. Thanks for your vlogs. Cheers from Aussie, Shayne

[@JohnvanGurp]

Thanks so much Shayne. I’m gobsmacked at the similarities between us. I saw some of Lyndon’s interviews recently too… what a great marriage. I’m going to figure out a way to keep a caregiver involved. It does seem mission critical now. Cheers !

[@Rowan2314]

Your video's are going to help so many people all over the wourld. Thank you John. So nice to know there are people like you in the world. Blessings to Heather.❤

[@cremebrulee4759]

You're a good guy, John. Thank you for allowing us to take this journey with you. I don't have someone with Alzheimer's to care for, but I feel a kinship with you and want to support you the best I can so that you are not alone.

[@RosemaryBall-r6z]

I worry that I may develop dementia. Since I’m not married I wonder how I can protect my children from having to care for me .

[@caroltardif5999]

Alzheimer’s is such a nasty disease. You are handling this with grace and dignity. By the way great shirt. ❤❤❤ I am a retired nurse and worked on an Alzheimer’s unit for over 20 years and I have seen the heartache it causes. So very sad

[@Bella_mo]

My grandfather cared for my grandmother who had Alzheimer's. It was a heartbreaking and lonely number of years for him. You're doing an amazing thing sharing your journey and letting others know they're not alone.

[@eilsmile8732]

My father was an awful man and in his 80’s developed Alzheimer’s, I thought how ironic it would be if he changed with it to be a nice person….. but no he became worse than ever and once had to be taken to hospital in an ambulance and used foul language towards the poor ambulance men, I was so ashamed of him.

[@JohnvanGurp]

That happens so often… It must be horrible. In a way I feel very lucky with the way things are going here.

[@donnab3183]

Nice t-shirt. You can create an e-store and sell the t-shirt, and even a mug. A lot of KZbin channels sell merchandise. Just a suggestion. ❤ Thank you for the suggestion of the Alzheimer’s hotline!

[@user-sj8mf8jn1z]

Yes…get help. Very good idea‼️ Also, I’m so glad you are recognizing Heather’s deteriorating mobility. She’s at great risk of a bad fall with all the stairs you have, especially. She will forget how to walk. A common thing is tipping forward and going down and they don’t know to try and break the fall. Anyway, just wanted to red flag this. Your nurse follower friend😊 (BTW…you’re doing a fabulous job.)

[@JohnvanGurp]

Yes! Thank you!

[@markcourtney1088]

I admire you, my dude! I hope I can love someone or someone love me like you do Heather! #StayStrongYoureNotAlone

[@JohnvanGurp]

Love the hashtag!!! I think I’ll use that going forward… Thank you!

[@leahjeffries1215]

Very cool tee shirt!

[@lorim2183]

Awesome shirt! You will look back on this hurdle in life how much stronger it made you 😎

[@lindabruns6020]

Many men feel it’s unmanly to cry but just remember, Jesus cried. It’s ok. 💖

[@JohnvanGurp]

Most of my life I found it beyond difficult or shameful, but I’ve turned that corner and I’m OK with it now.

[@cararugh7233]

Great content John!! We appreciate you so much!

[@justme6767]

John, no your not alone..❤

[@Enlightenment246]

Caring for someone with dementia is like being on a roller coaster ride with no end, but the love and support you provide can make all the difference. Hugs and special love to Heather as we will never know what exactly she is experiencing, thinking or feeling. ♥️♥️♥️🤗🤗🤗

[@claireklein9398]

Thank you John. My caregiving life too has become very slow and housebound.

[@BLTV_Photoshop]

God Bless you and Heather. 💗🙏

[@sewingqueen11]

You are not alone. I listen every time you come up on KZbin. I am sorry you both are going through this but sharing your journey on here helps others too. Thank you so much. I love that, to stay strong your not alone. You both are in my prayers.

[@SharonBee-tl8vn]

My dad LOVED puzzles. I'd get the smaller puzzles, like 100 pie especially, at the Dollar Store.

[@JohnvanGurp]

I wish she could still do simple things like that… It just doesn’t work.

[@rosemarys2465]

I'm glad you know that you have a good community here. I like Star Trek and found the episode you were referring to: "Star Trek" Wink of an Eye (TV Episode 1968) - IMDb . It's hard to see our loved ones in decline, heartbreaking. Make sure you rest and drink water and eat when you can...you need to keep up your strength.

[@buddyneher9359]

Thank you! Big Trekkie here, and I was trying to place the episode. Although I grew up with TOS I became a huge fan of the Next Generation... and yes, as other commenters here have said, Star Trek is a great help in many situations!

[@susanhuntley9262]

❤ you're doing great. Stay strong: you're not alone

[@JohnvanGurp]

Love it!

[@noelp4916]

I just love that quote from Ram Das. That's one of the best quotes I've ever heard. I'm so glad you mentioned that. All the best to you & all from Perth, Australia. 💗 🇦🇺

[@jennifulladventures]

Have you tried a good comfortable set of bluetooth headphones to play music she knows and loves? Music is so healing and stirs memories in a way that other things can't. She might enjoy that and you may see her eyes light up a bit more often. Just another tool for your toolbox. Blessings to you & Heather!

[@kathyf7862]

I can so relate to your journey. Even in this earlier stage with my husband, I sometimes have moments when I get frustrated with him. It's always over a behavior that's very inconsiderate, and I hadn't experienced it with him yet, so I don't realize at first that the behavior is from the disease. It can make you feel crazy at times!!! And, yes, then private tears help my body release the built-up tension I feel but don't want to show. You continue to help so many by being real about this lonely journey. 💞🙏

[@heatherphelps3799]

John, you’re doing great! I really appreciate you putting everything out on the table and talking about your feelings. My mother was never officially diagnosed with dementia but her death certificate said “dementia.” It was a hard 9 yrs…which started with her inability to handle her checkbook. I really feel your pain! It’s horrible. Try to make time for you!

[@PorkChopPiper-ln4uw]

Great video John keep Charging!

[@ChilledOut]

Stay strong, you’re not alone John ♥️ from 🇦🇺

[@KayakCrazy]

Chuckling over your space-time continuum analogy😂. Star Trek episodes got us through four years of house-bound caregiving…gotta love it!

[@LB-vc5wb]

I know that Star Trek episode and it’s a great analogy for the disconnect you feel with the rest of the world when you’re in the thick of it. Hang in there - you’re doing a great job!

[@annieoscar]

I’m a home health PT in Montana, and I just love your channel. You may want to get a consult with Home Health, for PT and /or OT. If you get an in-home caregiver, that would be a good time for therapist to come and teach them activities and safety with taking Heather out for walks. I say this so you can get a respite break that could benefit and enrich Heather’s day. God bless! 🤗❤️

[@lisawall9068]

I may be wrong but I would think OT and PT does not apply for dementia patients. They are not expected to improve with therapies. Things may be different in Canada. In the U.S., insurance payers won’t cover therapy if improvement is not expected and achieved and documented.

[@annieoscar]

@@lisawall9068 I’ve been a home health PT in the U.S. for many years. What you are saying is generally true but it is often appropriate for PT and OT to work with caregivers to teach safety with activities and even exercises for the patient to have maximum mobility. OT often teaches techniques for safety with dressing, bathing, grooming and eating and recommend any needed equipment. ☺️

[@Sharon-d5o]

We have no veteran support groups here for spouses. So thank you for taking the time to share your journey. I do not feel so alone here in the US. 🇺🇸

[@sherrymilen4172]

You're the best John and your attitude is perfect. For right now this is how it needs to be, it won't be forever. You decide what your priority's are and do the best you can with grace. Sending you Light and Love.

[@CreamyJalapeno]

Your channel is blowing up! Congratulations! ❤

[@JohnvanGurp]

@@CreamyJalapeno it’s just amazing to me… I sure didn’t anticipate this… I’m just some guy who uploaded a video. It’s very nice to see all the people with their positivity and shared experiences.

[@pennyreagan4498]

God bless you for your courage to share to help others. Trolls do not deserve space in your thoughts or emotions. Rest when you are able.

[@deedeew4040]

Oh the biggest hurdle was to admit it was time to get support. I was in denial and made excuses for my husband why he did what he did. Alzheimer's Association is the greatest. We are here for you, John.

[@dianemichel7824]

I have a 'stay strong ' shirt too!! I lost my husband to cancer almost 3 years ago. The grieving is bruta. The tears are relentless. I never thought i was grieving when he was diagnosed, but i too, slowly let go. I lost him in 8months.😢

[@JohnvanGurp]

I’m so sorry for your loss… Take care.

[@jillipepper5353]

Hope you have a good day and Heather does too 👍🏼🙋🏼‍♀️

[@SandiSquiller-zs1zu]

Thank you sir ❤Sandi Eagle River Wisconsin 🙏

[@jeanjacobs9965]

Thank you for the support John! I remember that Star Trek episode!! Any time something can be related to Star Trek it helps somehow. Lol! Love and blessings ♥️🙏

[@user-ts3mi4zk2n]

7.4+ subscribers ....WOW !...😃.....Thanks, John !....👍 ❤ From Michigan in the U.S,...🇺🇸

[@sweetbuynbuy]

Hello John, I don't usually leave comments but I feel I must tell you how much I look forward to these videos. I stumbled across your feed while researching dementia. My husband is in the very early stages, has not been given an official diagnosis but our doctor is convinced it is dementia. He is in denial and refuses to have an assessment. Keep up the great work~ A fellow Haligonian :)

[@RosemaryBall-r6z]

I hope you know how wonderful you are ,

[@toryberch]

Good morning John I used to care for clients in their homes on a straight 72 hr shift. I loved caring for them I've always been a caregiver 💖 I hope you will hire someone so Heather can adapt to a new change while she's still able to. God bless you both in your journey 🥰🙏

[@JohnvanGurp]

Good point, and this is in the back of my thoughts. I should get somebody in while she still has a bit of her wits about her so she can get used to the routine and their faces. Great suggestion.

[@toryberch]

@@JohnvanGurp Ya it's really the best time to get her acclimated to someone and I would also ask the agency to send someone that is closest to her personality needs it will help her not shy away to the first experience

[@vanman4923]

@@JohnvanGurp John - better to get help sooner than later. When my wife was first diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, a friend gave me the name of a caregiver. I held on to that phone number for 5 years - thinking I could do it myself. It was a mistake because the debilitating effects of Alzheimer’s creep up slowly on the victim and caregiver until you realize you are drowning and no longer just treading water. Turns out the caregiver was exceptional, had extensive Alz experience, and made the last 2 years of in-home hospice soooo much easier. For example, the caregiver would get my wife dressed and bathed in the morning, so I didn’t have to do that while simultaneously getting breakfast. Easier to juggle one ball versus three…

[@suemick8709]

I feel ya John. You're in uncharted territory. The days move like molasses with intermittent repetitive surprise chores interrupting your chain of thoughts and your own personal pursuits. You have been put on hold to wrestle with dementia that is stealing your Heather away. I'm not a religious person but God bless you. I don't know you personally but I know you are a good, good person.

[@jeanoverton4036]

I follow a few vloggers as they take care of their dementia people. You are definitely not alone as you take this journey. ❤

[@RebeccaOsterbergFamilyandMusic]

LOVE Star Trek and so many episodes are helpful with daily life events. I often feel that way about time when I’m challenged with my health issues and blindness. We got this. We’ve got each other!

[@jenscloset]

Love that t shirt!

[@marya4717]

John, you are realistically inspiring. You lay this life changing event out on the table for all see. It is very helpful. I try hard to imagine the change for Heather also, such as what's going on in her thoughts? How does she feel, what does she think? I cannot imagine it, it is too abstract. So far she seems content with yet enough familiarity and comfort - thanks to you providing such dedicated home care. On behalf of all those who are suffering the loss of themselves, their family, and all familiarity, I THANK YOU!

[@JohnvanGurp]

@@marya4717 thank you so much, I’m humbled by your beautiful comments.

[@MaryT-n2y]

Have just found your channel. My husband diagnosed with dementia 2.5 yrs ago. He is aware of what is happening and has adjusted fairly well but I know from friends experience things will soon change more drastically. Your video helps to prepare for that day and I am grateful that you are willing to give us glimpses of your experience. We are planning a move to NS from another province shortly so I can have some family support so I appreciate your comments about the continuing care offered. .

[@mercibeaucoup2486]

The title alone !!!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@valeriehaben4604]

One day at a time. That was my mantra.

[@chereeburtner4659]

Great shirt! I took care of my mom for 7 years through the journey. Keep your social life alive. It makes a difference in your mood. Thank goodness you and Heather traveled and we're active when you both could be. This is a new season for you both. Glad you are observing changes. This helps with services and telling doctors.

[@JohnvanGurp]

It’s so important to me to have a regular musical session with people I’ve been playing music with for years… I will hang onto that no matter what.

[@carole8635]

I think the Star Trek episode you re referring to is called “Wink of an Eye”. I’m going to check it out. I grew up with 3 brothers and never missed an episode. I like the spontaneous chats, very relatable! Wishing you smiles from Heather today.

[@karenvann9381]

Your message is very timely for me-not alone, my world has shrunk to caregiving, don't need much other than to know he is okay. Thank You.

[@Mary-pw1ki]

One day at a time.

[@hannahrosa5485]

You are never alone. You express yourself very well which sometimes isn't the case. You are experiencing a series of little dieings and it's painful, I know. Getting help in may benefit both of you in unexpected ways. I wish you both, the best. You are in my prayers.

[@ltorresmsw]

So glad that you will be able to get help with Heather. Providing 24/7 care is enormous. Take care of your mental health.

[@colleenwilkin5705]

Support groups really help! I joined one when I was a caregiver for my mom

[@susankoster5644]

I get you with the slowing down and focussing on the caregiving❤

[@stephenr115]

Star Wars! My nephew has a “tooth” from sarlock pit. The jabba hut episode. A cook on a sailboat in denser when they basically abandoned set and she got several. He got a special glass case. Recent sale 8,000 bucks

[@user-tf9bm5su7z]

Hi John, please keep posting! You are such an inspiration.

[@Mar33333]

God Bless ,we are with you always

[@ellef100]

If you want to hear her voice again try playing music/songs from her era that she liked when she was younger. Often dementia patients can sing & remember the words to songs even though they don't speak anymore. Also if her right arm/side is weak she may have had a mini stroke. Familiar because my hubby's mother had a stroke & progressed into dementia. Take care of yourself & extra help for her will be so good for you as well.

[@joannelesher396]

You are so right about needing help when it comes to moving or lifting. My skinny little brother-in-law was too much for one person. Your thinking ahead is going to help you so much. Good job!

[@Mia_Louiise]

John you are at 7.29k 😊

[@JohnvanGurp]

I’ve just blown away by it…

[@joygrahamtravis1789]

🤗 Love those words!

[@bradosplace933]

My 80 year old sister and I are taking a trip down to Florida from our homes here in Michigan to visit both my sisters who live in the same town both have dementia one is 76 and the other is 72.My mom had dementia and we lost her at age 84.Looking forward to seeing my sisters.I like that saying that someone is just walking you home.Have a beautiful day John.

[@maureenodonnell1378]

I took care of my sister, 13 years older than me. She had Parkinson's with dementia. She was living alone in an apartment in a senior living community doing ok. The dementia started to progress fairly quickly during COVID when at times I was not able to visit. Looking back now I try to think of the happy moments like taking her to Red Robin for a burger and fries after restaurants had reopened. She was so happy, especially when they came and asked if she wanted more fries. It was so surprising because at home she was eating very little. Enjoy the smiles when they come.

[@barblark2728]

You are so wise to prepare yourself for future needs while being immersed in the present. Once again I am amazed at your perspective and dedication.

[@Mithras444]

This is very educational. I had no idea there were so many kinds of dementia. Your doing a great job! My type of dementia is from hypoxia and coma. I use KZbin comment section as a type of therapy. You are such a kind soul. I like Ram Das too, and Alan Watts. Please don't forget to take care of yourself.❤😊

[@antoinettecastle4739]

Love the T shirt John. I am so glad youre thinking of getting some help. I'm pretty sure that Heather would really want that for you. So kind of you yo be thinking of others not just yourself ❤❤❤

[@KatePage-c6b]

Thank you for your honesty!

[@user-sp7oj6yh8m]

John, You and I are in a similar place, but we've come to it from opposite directions. Heather began with dementia and now is developing mobility issues. My husband has advanced Parkinson's, so has had mobility issues for 10+ years and now is developing dementia. While Heather's mobility issues may well be the deciding factor in bringing in outside help, there is a lot you can do for her and for yourself now. You can move her in bed or elsewhere, you just need to learn how. A physiotherapist can help you learn how to lift and move her without hurting her or you. My husband weighs about 60 lbs more than I do and he's 10" taller, but I lift him into and out of bed, turn him throughout the night and help him to walk. The most important issue is to learn ahead of time how to move her if/when she falls. Your local fire department may have a non-emergency life assist program - now is the time to find out, before you need it. Again a physio can show you how to do it. Assistive devices might work such as a walker, a sit-to-stand device etc. Many of them won't because she won't be able to learn how to use them, but an Occupational Therapist can guide you here too. You might not feel very lucky, but you have an advantage in seeing the mobility issues coming before they are fully here and that gives you time to learn to deal with them in a safer way. Lots of unsolicited advice, so do with it as you wish LOL. As always, lots of positive vibes headed your way - hang in there, you have a large and growing community here all pulling for you.

[@JohnvanGurp]

Thank you for these amazing suggestions and generous help, I really appreciate it!

[@reneklein6049]

Good morning , John. Hope it's a good one for you. You have every right to cry. Your life has changed in so many ways. It's definitely not easy living with a loved one with early onset Alzheimer's. We found that a walker helped to an extent, but half of the time, my mom would forget to use it. I basically had to childproof everything, so she wouldn't get hurt if she fell, which she did a lot as the disease progressed. You are lucky that where you live, they pay for help. Not here in the States. You're on your own. You do some time for yourself, even if it's only to get a cup of coffee. You are doing an amazing job. My prayers to you and Heather.❤🙏🫶

[@bbwalls]

Your patience inspires me to be more patient. The beat goes on. Stay strong, we’re not alone.

[@lynnerskine3346]

Thank you for all you do. Dealt with my Mom's dementia now my husband has parkinson.

[@mercywilliams2698]

Thank you so much John! 🦋💝🌟🌟🌟✅

[@OpalAllen-j8r]

Love the shirt. I give thanks for everything.

[@WdawgSmith]

Thanks John Yes You will need help Especially if you live somewhere where the financial burden is eased Sure there is something to be said for sticking it out on your own and being a “tough guy” But honestly that is severely overrated It will only bring you a sense of accomplishment It will do nothing for heather if she just needs some professional care. So I think you have it right. If it appears to you that she just does better when it’s just you and her, then keep it that way for as long as you can. If, however it becomes obvious that you need help then you should get help. You will make the right decision That is the only certainty in this situation I think.

[@brynny68]

I am a certified music practitioner and I work in a Memory Care Center. One of my all-time favorite patients to work with is a woman in her '50s like me, who has primary progressive aphasia. I have gotten to the point with her where I can refocus her with music and calm her down about 50% of the time if she's rapidly cycling and moving around quickly. Music is an incredible medicine and a wonderful tool. You are an incredible caregiver. Not only do I work in a Memory Care Center, but my own Mother has dementia and my spouse and I live at home with my parents. So I understand.❤

[@JohnvanGurp]

I do my best trying to get some music to work, its magic, with a bit of success here and there.

[@Laurel-h6c]

Your videos have helped to know there are those out there that understand. I’ve reached out to others and it helps. Thanks

[@lisapellitier2450]

Enjoy your day

[@pcaito857]

Wonderful, honest video. Understand the "small world" analogy.

[@CarrieAKouri]

You're doing great, John! I"m sorry Heather's mobility is declining. ❤

[@hope4lisi]

Seriously... God bless you both ❤