Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver in Ottawa, shares her heartfelt story about a cherished family tradition involving a folk art calendar that has spanned nearly three decades. The calendar, a perennial Christmas gift in their household, holds special significance for her mother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2015.
Having moved from Toronto to Ottawa with her parents, Nicole witnessed the gradual progression of her mother’s disease as she transitioned to a memory care facility. Despite her mother’s diminishing cognitive abilities, Nicole continued the tradition of gifting her the beloved calendar each year.
The calendar serves as a poignant reminder of shared memories and family traditions, offering a sense of continuity in a changing landscape overshadowed by Alzheimer’s. Though her mother may no longer engage with the calendar as before, Nicole finds solace in the belief that the love and care behind the gift resonate with her mother on a deeper level.
In moments of uncertainty and emotional turmoil, the calendar symbolizes connection, love, and hope amidst the challenges posed by the disease. Nicole’s unwavering commitment to this annual ritual reflects her belief in the enduring power of familial bonds and the importance of preserving cherished memories in the face of adversity.