When my mother, a vibrant, joyful woman, was diagnosed with dementia (and later, cancer), we invited her to come live with us.

Living with someone who had, on one hand, diminishing cognitive functioning and an inability to make safe choices, but, on the other hand, exuberant energy and curiosity about life, was similar to my experience raising my children when they were toddlers. My husband and I were exhausted with mom’s memory care, answering the same questions over and over, making sure she was safe and cared for, while keeping her stimulated by providing enjoyable activities at an appropriate level for her diminishing abilities. It became a full-time job.

When my mother’s care began to overwhelm us, our dear friend, Sue Williard, came into our lives to help with this difficult responsibility. Sue’s warm and caring demeanor had an immediate calming effect on all of us. Her grace brought a gentle lifting of our spirits.

Sue took my mother on appropriate field trips, stimulating what remained of mom’s desire to learn. She developed a relationship with my mother, encouraging her to share stories of her past. My mother welcomed Sue’s visits like she would an afternoon with a best friend. When my mother grew more tired, and less able to explore, Sue nestled into the couch with her, listening, reading, relating, sometimes singing.

Words cannot express the gratitude and relief I felt, knowing that, when I was unable to cope with the stress of caring for my mother with dementia, Sue Williard was there to provide that loving care for her. I could rest, knowing that my mother had such a bright, caring, responsible, stimulating, resourceful, and loving companion during her decline.

My mother has now passed. I can smile, satisfied, knowing that, with Sue’s help, we were able to squeeze as much joy as possible out of her final years.