Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver in Ottawa, shares her poignant experience with a cherished family tradition that has endured over the years. Nearly three decades ago, a folk art calendar found its way into her mother’s possession during the holiday season, becoming a recurring gift within the family. Residing in Toronto, the festive period was always a joyous occasion for Nicole’s family, with the calendar becoming a beloved fixture for her mother, who took delight in admiring the vibrant artwork each year, notably cherishing the snowy scenes of December.
In 2015, at the age of 68, Nicole’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, having previously supported her father through a similar journey. Despite initial challenges with memory loss, she maintained a positive outlook and endeavored to stay cheerful. Over time, as the disease advanced, the family relocated to Ottawa, and Nicole’s mother transitioned to a memory care facility due to her declining health, eventually moving into a more compact living space in 2021.
Throughout these changes, the constant presence of the calendar remained steadfast. Despite her mother’s diminishing ability to engage with the gift, Nicole continued the tradition each year, finding solace in the familiar ritual. As her mother’s condition deteriorated, with moments of confusion and physical limitations becoming more pronounced, Nicole persisted in sharing the calendar with her during visits, turning the pages to showcase the artwork and reminisce about past joys, even though her mother’s responses were now limited.
The act of gifting the calendar held deep significance for Nicole, serving as a tangible connection to her mother’s past and a means of expressing love and familial ties. Despite the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s, Nicole found comfort in upholding this tradition, believing that the gesture conveyed a sense of care and familiarity to her mother, creating a sense of home and continuity amidst a changing reality.
In the face of adversity brought by the disease, the annual ritual of presenting the calendar symbolized resilience, purpose, and hope for Nicole. Through this simple act, she sought to transcend the physical limitations imposed by Alzheimer’s, embracing the belief that love and connection endure beyond words and actions. Looking ahead to the upcoming year, Nicole anticipates the symbolic act of turning the page to 2024 with a sense of optimism and gratitude for the enduring bond shared with her mother.