My Mom was officially diagnosed with Alzheimer's about 5 years ago and was a Crossing Guard for almost 30 years...almost everyone in town knew her. She was the glue that held our family together. Once she was diagnosed my sister and I prayed that she would 'go home' before she forgot us and her grandchildren. Mom had 'functioning' Alzheimer's and was still able to do a lot of everyday things, but once she was diagnosed she was told by her doctor that she had to give up her Cross Guard job and she was devastated (as were we). Mom handled it well, like the strong woman that she has always been and continued to be 'our Mom' for many more years. A few months ago she got a very bad UTI that advanced her Alzheimer's faster than we could blink...but she still remembered us :) My Mom passed away two months later and with her last breath, she told me that she loves me...best gift I ever received!!! She is missed every second and thought of, by many, every day.

Anonymous
Salem, NH