The Daily Revisiting 'The Mother Who Changed: A Story of Dementia'
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May 12, 2024 
Katie Engelhart, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer for The New York Times Magazine, delves into the emotional complexities of dementia through Diane Norellius's personal journey. They explore the ethical dilemmas families face when cognitive decline alters loved ones' desires. Topics include the tension between preserving autonomy and the need for care, the legal struggles surrounding power of attorney, and the bittersweet nature of navigating intimate relationships amidst severe memory loss. Their candid discussions illuminate the profound impact of dementia on identity and familial bonds.
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The Margot Case
- Philosophers debate the Margot case, a woman with Alzheimer's who was happy despite her illness.
- Previously, she documented her wish to be euthanized if she developed the disease, raising ethical questions.
Diane's Story
- Katie Engelhart learned about the Norellius family from the daughters who emailed her about their mother, Diane.
- Diane, a traditional homemaker, became lost and isolated after her husband's death in 2011.
Denzel's Arrival
- Denzel Nelson, Julie's ex-husband's father, entered Diane's life after several losses.
- Initially, Diane found Denzel repulsive, but her feelings changed abruptly.