In Ottawa, Nicole Robichaud, a caregiver and lawyer, reflects on her family’s longstanding Christmas tradition involving a folk art calendar. This cherished calendar has been a consistent gift for her mother for nearly three decades, sparking fond memories of holiday joy and appreciation for colorful paintings, particularly the festive scenes in December.
In 2015, at the age of 68, Robichaud’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Despite the challenges posed by the progressive illness over the years, Robichaud’s mother’s resilience and positivity shone through as she navigated the changes brought on by the disease. With the passing of her father, her mother eventually moved to a memory care floor and later into a smaller suite, where the calendar remained a constant presence.
As the disease advanced, Robichaud witnessed her mother’s decline, from delusions to the inability to feed herself. Despite these difficult moments, Robichaud continued to find solace in the small joys and humorous interactions shared with her mother.
Though her mother’s connection to the calendar had faded, Robichaud continued the tradition of ordering it each year. The ritual of turning the pages and discussing the artwork during her visits provided a sense of purpose and connection, even as her mother’s ability to engage diminished.
For Robichaud, the act of gifting the calendar symbolized a deeper connection to her mother and their shared traditions. It served as a reminder of the enduring love and care that transcended the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease. In a time marked by uncertainty and loss of control, the simple act of sharing this tradition brought comfort, purpose, and hope for the future.
As Robichaud looks ahead to the next year, she finds solace in the belief that the calendar not only preserves the essence of their relationship but also creates a sense of familiarity and love in her mother’s living space. Despite the limitations imposed by the disease, the calendar continues to be a source of spiritual connection and a beacon of hope amidst the challenges they face.
In moments of shared silence and reflection, the calendar stands as a testament to the enduring bond between Robichaud and her mother, transcending the confines of Alzheimer’s and embodying the power of love and tradition.
