"I Just Wish That Daddy Knew What Was Happening"
When Barack Obama received the Democratic presidential nomination by acclamation, emotions were running high throughout the convention. But one delegate's statement overwhelmed me.Sondra Hollinger-Samuels' father has Alzheimer's disease. As a young man, he wasn't allowed to drink at "White" water fountains; he marched and fought for civil rights. Now, as Barack Obama becomes the first Black major party nominee, Sondra's father is unable to comprehend such a monumental event.
Watch her statement here.
Regardless of our political views and positions, I think we can all find a common thread of desperation in Sondra's words. If you know or have known someone with Alzheimer's or another dementia, I'm sure you can think of a time when something happened that you knew that person would appreciate -- if only the person could understand what was happening. But Alzheimer's robs people's ability to grasp the personal or societal implications of situations. It makes our hearts ache.
My thoughts are with Sondra, her father, and anyone who has also said, "I just wish my loved one knew what was happening."
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Comments
I lost my Dad in July, he had Alzheimer. For the past few years I said that on a daily basis. “Oh if Dad could” now I am saying “Dad would have…” so sad. Before I took comfort in holding Dad’s hand and just listening to him. Now I just look at pictures of better times. Alzheimers is the worst!!
That was a very powerful video clip, and it goes to show that a life is not wasted, no matter how it ends. Clearly, the young lady still admires her father’s dreams and ideals as well as his accomplishments.