Lewy Body Dementia

She stands before her husband’s grave and holds her daughter’s hand,

She offers words of comfort while she weeps.

In a house now still and quiet she resolves not to despair,

As she chooses what to leave and what to keep.

Organised and practical, she makes a host of plans:

Holidays, downsizing, seeing friends.

To visit childhood memories in places ‘cross the sea;

A new garden she takes pride in as she tends.

Then there comes some dizziness,

Lanyards for oft-lost keys.

Mood swings and uncertainty,

We all try not to see.

She loves to cook,

But forgets the timer.

Begins to stumble,

Denial gets harder.

Then a diagnosis,

No clear prognosis.

Declines are small,

But rob of all.

Grandson moves in,

Tries his best.

Then part-time carers,

“She needs more rest”.

Walking frames

Shower seats

Aged-care home

All-day sleeps

She has visions

Terrified

Begs to leave

Daughter cries

Calmer now

Stay in bed

Fidget blanket

Carer fed

Eyes closed

Words froze

Still repose

Murmurs

Tremors

Quiet.