Alzheimer's

Jaime Pollard-Smith

Fresh Ink

I took Mom to her final cognitive evaluation on June 4, 2015. After a certain point in the progression of the disease, it became...

Jaime Pollard-Smith

Life of the Party

I dreaded it for weeks. Calling it a “celebration of life” did not make it seem less like a funeral. I was battling the finality of Mom’s...

Jaime Pollard-Smith

The Right Place at the Right Time

And when it's over, it's over. Last week, I told a few of my best friends that I had decided everything was going to be okay. Mom was...

Jaime Pollard-Smith

I Am Not Afraid

"I am not afraid of storms for I am learning how to sail my ship." -Louisa May Alcott I went on a walk with a close family friend last...

Jaime Pollard-Smith

Mom's Long Journey Home

“Where is your dad?” My kids were in a trance staring at the television. I just finished cleaning up after feeding everyone dinner. My...

Jaime Pollard-Smith

For Better or for Worse

In sickness and in health. We never know exactly how this line will play out in the real world. It might be quick like a bandaid being rippe

Jaime Pollard-Smith

Have the Talk

I try not to dwell on the missed opportunity and perhaps consider it to be one last lesson my mom taught me. “Seize the moment, Jaime. Don’t

Jaime Pollard-Smith

Acceptance

“Whoever is present are the right people. Whenever it begins is the right time. Whatever happens is the only thing that could have...

UNBECOMING