Nancy Reagan

As Nancy Reagan rested her head on the flag-draped coffin of her husband it was a bittersweet moment. The intrusion of the television camera allowed the world to witness what for most of us would be an intensely private and personal moment. Nancy told Ronald she loved him and in that sad and touching moment the grief of a wife who had lost her husband to Alzheimer's disease was on public display.

For the last 10 years the Reagan’s lived away from the public eye. Nancy had the help of family, friends and a retinue of staff to help her look after the President as Alzheimer’s disease took its toll. Her privileged position meant her role as caregiver was very different to the experiences of many people. However, emotionally at least, it does not mean it was any easier.

Nancy Reagan’s role has focused attention on family, the power of people to overcome great difficulties, on the effect of illness and disease and on the inequality of the caregivers role. In the past the President’s illness helped to focus attention and greater understanding of Alzheimer’s disease. In turn this generated more research and increased finance. People in the public domain have a unique position that not only mirrors society but they have the ability to change it too.

Family relationships were also highlighted. Nancy’s display of affection towards her sons and daughter was is in marked contrast to their often troubled relationships of the past. Supporting and caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can heal families and bring them together as much as it might tear them apart. Ultimately however, the death of a loved one can be a unifying experience.

Life will never be the same for Nancy. Like millions before her, and sadly for many to come, she will have to cope with the painful process of bereavement. Some people feel guilt that the person they loved was taken from them even before they died. This can part of the legacy of Alzheimer’s – loss before loss, yet as Nancy Reagan shows love can remain a constant.