I Will Never Forget – A Daughter's Story of Her Mother's Arduous and Humorous Journey Through Dementia
I Will Never Forget is the almost unbelievable but true story of one amazing woman’s accomplished life and incredible journey through dementia. Through superb stories from the author’s childhood, the author's mother, Elizabeth (Betty) Ward’s wonderful character is revealed.
Over time, as their relationship evolves and a new paradigm is formed, Betty begins to exhibit goofy behaviors, uncharacteristic verbal assaults and bizarre thinking. Although clearly mystified her mother’s irrational actions, her amazing ability to mask the truth prolongs denial, until one cataclysmic explosion of reality over an innocuous drapery rod launches a waterfall of destructive events.
As her mother’s brilliant mind is steadily destroyed by dementia's insatiable appetite for brain cells, Pereira accompanies her mother on her journey. She witnesses Betty’s fascinating visions of her own mother, masterful Houdini-like disappearances and finally a stunning rally to take control of her own destiny.
I Will Never Forget is a heartwarming, honest and deeply moving story pertinent to everyone touched by the insidious effects of dementia.
About Elaine C Pereira (Ann Arbor, Michigan Author)
A native of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Elaine Pereira and her husband Joseph live in south-eastern Michigan with their two big dogs and two new kitties. Together they have five adult children and five young grandchildren.
Pereira earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy and Master of Arts from Wayne State University. Most of her professional career as an occupational therapist was with children with special needs. She also worked in Home Health Care, hospitals and private practice.
In addition to actually living the incredible drama and the sometimes humorous journey with her mother through dementia, Pereira holds certificates as a Certified Dementia Practitioner and Caregiver. Today she works extensively to help advance Alzheimer's awareness and donate to research through book sales of I Will Never Forget.