When we get older, there are many different health conditions that we may have to deal with. The majority of us tend to slow down and we may lose muscle mass, have to deal with the aches and pains of old age or perhaps may deal with something a little more embarrassing, such as incontinence. There are also some serious problems that can occur as we age and one of those that is common is dementia. An interesting thing about dementia is the fact that it affects everybody who comes into contact with the person, not just the person themselves.
You might be surprised to learn that about 46 million people worldwide are affected by the progressive condition that is called dementia. It can have a number of illnesses that are behind it, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s and others. Those who care for individuals with dementia quickly realize that it is a difficult situation. Every once in a while, however, something beautiful happens.
MJ Grant’s parents, Carmen and Manley Grant were both deaf, although the children were able to hear. They grew up in Sanford, Maine and now, MJ interprets sign language for a living. She also spends as much time as possible with her mother.
On a day during the winter, MJ went for a drive down by the beach with her mother. They were looking at the scenery and a special moment was about to happen.
A sign language began and they were talking about friends. Carmen asked her about her mother and she was a little confused. MJ’s reaction, however, is quite kind. It can be frustrating to speak with people who have memory problems at times but MJ guided her through the process.
Carmen finally asked her, “Did I give birth to you?” That is when she begins to put the pieces together and suddenly, the mother realized who she was.
The daughter was then able to remind her who she was and you can see Carmen getting emotional as she begins to feel something she hasn’t felt in some time.
It isn’t long before both of the women were crying together. No wonder people love the video!
“Dementia can be beautiful,” MJ wrote when she uploaded the video to Facebook. “Yesterday I took my mother for a ride to the beach. Taking her out of her element (my home, where she lives) can be confusing for her. Within the confusion there can be such beauty and sweet little surprises. I simply adore her.”
“People often forget the wisdom and beauty that people who are aging bring to this world. When we slow down long enough to take the time to spend with them it not only fills their heart, it can cause ours to overflow with love.”
We are so happy that MJ shared this video so we could all see the special moment that she shared with her mother.
You can watch it for yourself right here:
