Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver based in Ottawa, shares her heartfelt experience with a beloved family tradition that has stood the test of time. Nearly three decades ago, a folk art calendar found its way into her mother’s possession, becoming a cherished annual gift within their family circle.
In the bustling holiday seasons of their Toronto home, this calendar held a special place in her mother’s heart. Each vibrant painting within its pages was meticulously admired, with December’s snowy scenes holding a particularly festive allure. However, life took a poignant turn in 2015 when her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 68, having had prior experience with the disease through caring for her own father.
Despite the challenges that Alzheimer’s brought, the family persevered, eventually relocating to Ottawa in 2017 as the disease progressed. With each transition, the calendar faithfully accompanied them, symbolizing continuity amidst change. As her mother’s condition deteriorated, Robichaud found solace in the small moments of joy and humor they shared, even as her mother’s connection with the calendar faded.
Today, as her mother resides in a state of diminished awareness, the annual ritual of gifting the calendar remains a poignant gesture of love and continuity. Though verbal communication is no longer possible, the simple act of turning the pages and sharing the familiar images serves as a tether to cherished memories and family traditions.
In the face of the profound challenges posed by Alzheimer’s, this enduring tradition symbolizes Robichaud’s unwavering belief in the power of love and connection beyond physical limitations. Amidst the uncertainty and sadness that accompany the disease, the calendar stands as a beacon of comfort, purpose, and hope, embodying her deeply held spiritual convictions.
Looking ahead to the promise of a new year, Robichaud finds solace in the act of turning the page to 2024, embracing the continuity and love that the calendar represents in her mother’s life.
