Alzheimer's is best forgotten.

Ron isn’t Ron any more. It’s been that way for a long time. But still, those close to Ron, cling to him. Because they see traces of the old Ron. They are reminded of what Ron used to be. When he was a research scientist for 3M Co. When Ron was an inventor of the amalgam used to fill teeth. Ron was more or less born with a scientific mind.  He thought of everything in scientific terms. Even in the realm of his emotional life. He took the scientific approach. Calculated. Reasoned. Or so I’m told. I came on the scene late. After Ron was riddled with Alzheimer’s. But I’ve been educated. By Ron’s daughter Julie. And his son in law Rick. They’ve been Ron’s primary care-givers. For six years. In their home.  Now Ron is in rehab. Recovering from a broken neck. Repaired by fusion. Somewhat heroic methods. To keep Ron alive. Maybe for only a few more months. Ron is being admired. Almost revered. For his will to live. To survive. As a semblance of the real Ron. That used to be. Anyway, after Ron dies, we’ll all remember Ron as the Ron prior to Alzheimer’s. Just like my dear sweet Jeanne. She died after a 13-year bout with Alzheimer’s. But I don’t remember much about that. Better to focus on the good times. And recognize that Alzheimer’s is best forgotten.  –Jim Broede