Lost a sweet lady yesterday, Pat Croft

Dear family and friends,

I need to share some news about my beloved Pat. On June 1, after 11 years of enduring the pangs of Alzheimer's, Pat passed away. Hours before the end she had a triggering event that we are not sure how to label but likely some dramatic brain disruption. It resulted in her experiencing strong yet seemingly humorous hallucinations that brought smiles and laughter to her. Over the previous few days she had become weaker, and I realized I would no longer be able to take her on our cherished car rides, which had become a frequent and special part of our routine. She is no longer experiencing the devastating chaos in her mind that the last few years visited upon her daily. She is at peace and in a better place.

The boys and I will be gathering soon to celebrate her wonderful life, though there won't be a public service. We are incredibly grateful for the support and love from all of you and especially her dear girlfriends who stood by her, the staff at the assisted living facility, the professionals who performed their duties with compassion, and the innumerable people who helped us both throughout this journey.

As for what this means for my living situation and activities, I'm not entirely sure yet. However, for the near future, I see no reason to make any big changes. I am forever in the debt of those who taught and encouraged me while I was her caregiver. I came up short in so many ways but without your teachings and sharings it could have been so much worse.

Thank you all for your kindness and understanding during this time.

Warm regards,

mark

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It is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness.