Offering a raw, honest account of what it means on a practical level to love and care for a spouse with Alzheimer's Disease, A Path Called Alzheimer's, by author Christine Leys, gives unflinching witness to losses that come relentlessly and to exhaustion that define her days. It records her conversations with the God she loves and trusts, who walks with her every step of the way. He doesn't make the road of caregiving easy, but he does answer prayer and provide strength when all human strength is spent.
Churches sometimes struggle with knowing how to support members with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. As the disease progresses, these people are often more and more hidden. A Path Called Alzheimer's brings them out of the shadows, helping people better understand the needs of those living with Alzheimer's and the care they need.
Leys shares a story of struggle and loss, but also a love story. It's the story of a spouse's love for her husband that persists even when she sees little of the man she married in the shell of his body. It's the story of her love for her Lord who is her companion on the journey. But more importantly, it's the story of God's love and care for both, a love that gives meaning to the journey.
