Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver in Ottawa, shares her poignant experience with a cherished family tradition revolving around a folk art calendar that has been a consistent Christmas gift for her mother for almost three decades. This tradition has been a source of joy and nostalgia, particularly for her mother, who took delight in admiring the vibrant paintings each month, with a special fondness for the festive scenes in December.
In 2015, at the age of 68, Nicole’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, a condition she had witnessed her own father battle two decades earlier. Despite the challenges of memory loss and cognitive decline, her mother remained resilient and tried to stay positive, even as the disease progressed over the years.
As the disease advanced, Nicole’s parents relocated to a retirement home in Ottawa, and eventually, her mother moved to the memory care unit due to her worsening condition. Despite the changes in her mother’s health and abilities, the folk art calendar remained a constant presence in her life, symbolizing continuity and connection to cherished memories.
As time passed, Nicole’s mother’s cognitive decline deepened, and she reached a point where she could no longer engage with the calendar or appreciate its pictures. Despite these heartbreaking changes, Nicole continued the tradition of purchasing the calendar each year, finding solace and purpose in sharing the familiar images with her mother during visits.
Although their interactions may be limited now, and verbal communication is no longer possible, the act of turning the pages of the calendar and discussing its contents serves as a meaningful way for Nicole to express her love and maintain a connection with her mother. This simple yet profound gesture embodies the enduring bond between them and the hope that, on some level, her mother can still feel the love and care behind the annual gift.
In the face of the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s disease, the folk art calendar has become more than just a seasonal gift; it is a symbol of love, tradition, and spiritual belief for Nicole. It represents a source of comfort, continuity, and hope in a situation where so much feels uncertain and beyond control. Looking ahead to the upcoming year, Nicole anticipates the simple yet powerful act of turning the calendar page to 2024, continuing the tradition that bridges the past with the present and keeps their bond alive.