The Audio Long Read Best of 2024: ‘It comes for your very soul’: how Alzheimer’s undid my dazzling, creative wife in her 40s
Dec 20, 2024
Michael Aylwin, a seasoned sports writer for The Guardian, shares an intimate account of his wife’s heartbreaking struggle with Alzheimer’s. He discusses the profound emotional toll of caregiving, revealing how love and loss intertwine in the face of such a relentless illness. Aylwin reflects on the guilt and grief that caregivers often endure, while also emphasizing the importance of savoring the present moments. His insights provide a poignant reminder of resilience amid the challenges of navigating identity and connection.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Early Signs and Dismissal
- Michael Aylwin's wife, Vanessa, initially expressed fears of developing Alzheimer's, which he dismissed.
- Early signs, like forgetting a conversation about a zit, were initially overlooked.
Dementia's Nature
- Dementia cannot be fought like other diseases because it impairs cognition, making choices impossible.
- Worrying about getting dementia is pointless; focus on modifiable risk factors.
False All-Clear
- Vanessa's fear of memory tests prevented early diagnosis attempts.
- After seizures and an MRI, she received a false all-clear, leading to a temporary improvement.