A Long Farewell

The purpose of this book is to tell a story about how my family's lives have been affected by Alzheimer’s. Some may ask why I would want to do this. Why would I want to go back and relive what may be better to forget, or try to forget? Also, many have lived through, and may still be in similar life situations. Most have remained silent. Why should I consider public exposure of such personal experiences? And would my wife want me to tell you about some of the things she may have said or done as her mental capability slipped away?
To answer the first question, to those to whom this story may be all too familiar, maybe you will find some mental and emotional release from reading my words. You've been there and done that - or close to it anyway. To those who have not had a similar experience, chances are that you may know someone who has had or is having a similar experience. And, as the population increases, you may sometime be living through this kind of loss yourself. I hope you will find these writings helpful.
Would my wife approve? She has never seemed to be actually aware of what was happening to her. But both her sisters-in-law had Alzheimer’s, so she saw the effect on her brothers. I'm sure she would want me to write about our experience if it would help others through this long farewell.