Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver from Ottawa, reflects on the enduring tradition of a folk art calendar that has been a constant in her family’s Christmas celebrations for almost three decades. The calendar was a cherished gift for her mother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2015. Despite the progression of the disease and her mother’s diminishing ability to engage with the calendar, Nicole continues the tradition each year.
The familiarity of the calendar brings a sense of continuity to their changing circumstances. Even as her mother’s condition deteriorates, Nicole finds solace in the simple act of turning the pages of the calendar and sharing the colorful scenes with her. It has become a meaningful way for Nicole to connect with her mother, expressing love and preserving family traditions amidst the challenges of Alzheimer’s.
As Nicole navigates the complexities of caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, she finds comfort in the belief that the essence of her mother transcends physical limitations. The annual ritual of gifting the calendar symbolizes hope, purpose, and a spiritual connection that transcends the hardships of the disease. In a time of uncertainty, the calendar serves as a beacon of light, offering a glimpse of continuity and love amid the ever-changing landscape of Alzheimer’s.