My Alzheimer's Journey

Part 73 - Snow and Ice -

Happy Friday!

I am breaking from my Friday tradition due to the snow and ice event that is expected for the eastern half of the United States. Officially named, Winter Storm Fern, she is expected to impact approximately 230 million people.

Fern is bringing heavy snow or ice. This will create hazardous travel conditions, dangerous temperatures, and increased risk of long-lasting power outages.

The threat of losing electrical power is a concern for everyone. For caregivers, losing electrical power can be an enormous challenge. Breaking the normal routine for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can trigger anxiety, confusion, and anger. If your loved one is used to watching television and the power is out, this change to their normal routine can be upsetting. Be prepared with other activities to occupy your loved one’s time.

Make certain all outside doors are locked to prevent your loved one from wandering off. They may see the snow through a window and decide to go outside for a walk or to make a snowman.

Be safe, stay home, and keep your loved ones protected.

When I started writing My Alzheimer’s Journey many months ago, I promised to share my personal life in an honest and unfiltered manner. In the spirit of that commitment, I want to introduce you to my friend DB.

DB is a polar bear that was given to me 46 years ago. I was working at the South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind. The name DB is short for Deaf Bear. You may notice that DB has very small ears. I suppose that is why he is deaf.

DB has been my friend and companion through all the ups and downs of life. He has traveled with me to some really cool places over the years. I am glad he can’t speak because he could tell some tales that probably should not be told.

A few of the subscribers to this blog know DB very well. In fact, DB used to visit a bar on St. Helena Island in South Carolina. He would sit on the bar and flirt with all the women. Lifelong friendships were made at that bar.

I was a bit of a clotheshorse in my 20’s through 50’s. Like father, like son, DB always wanted to be dressed in the latest fashionable clothes. He had a wardrobe of Ralph Lauren Polo shirts, Zara sweaters, and Carter’s jeans. In the photo above he is wearing a carpenter’s outfit.

My mother absolutely loved DB. And, DB loved her. He figured out that his “grandmother” would buy him clothes. Sometimes when we went to visit Mother, DB would go naked. Mother could not allow DB to be a naked bear, so she would go buy him new clothes.

DB is on snow watch today. As a polar bear, he naturally loves snow.

Now you are likely wondering about my mental stability. You have every right to do that.

I suspect many of you have your own version of DB. I have beared my soul, it is time for you to do the same!

Have a great weekend. Make hot chocolate or a hot toddy. Take care of your loved one. Keep your pets safe. Make new memories.