appearance on July 1st, 2009, when my husband was first diagnosed

with Alzheimers....But we have been getting acquainted since May 31st

of last year: It took six months after the sixth visit with the nuerologist

to get this dx.

At first they concentrated on the aneurysm he suffered in May, because that was when the sudden behavioral changes took place, numerous tests were done, cat scans, EEGs, blood work, they feared seizure activity may be the cause, medication was started and stopped when the last eeg showed no sign of seizure activity...And all this time I watched him losing himself, saw the changes, his inability to make decisions and perform some activities of daily living that were routine and familiar in the past, I heard a man who never cursed use profanity, become angry and accusing; I watched him give up on all the things he loved, his hunting, fishing and boating, I saw this independent and skilled man become unsure and dependent...Me, I cursed Fate and asked God why ? I just wanted and answer, just tell me what this is, I wanted

my Denny back.

Finally a memory, cognitive test was done, and confirmed all our fears;I was amazingly calm in the doctors office that day, I think because I knew deep down that this was where we were heading. His doctor said "Ok, we know what it is, what are we going to do about it?"...He started him on medication, one of the best , he said....It will slow the progression of the disease, and improve his ability to interact and perform activities of daily living, the doctor assured me that this disease is a slow process, My husband looked at me and said "Maybe, I'll be one of the lucky one's" !

What I want to say to all of you is...Know your enemy, know your options, if you are concerned about a loved one, seek help....Visit Alzheimers Association on the web at www.alz.org for the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimers.....Early detection provides the best opportunity for your loved one and yourself, for treatment and future planning.

On the way home from the doctors office that day , my husband held my hand and said "I love you, and I want to thank you for being here to help me and take care of me".I was driving and could not stop the tears that came, God Bless him, my Denny........jen