The memory thing started before I retired.
But it really worsened several years ago,
when I started to have trouble remembering
my kids’ and grandkids’ names.
For a while in conversation,
I was able to cover it up.
But quickly it became
too apparent.
My wife was the first to the party
and the most vocal, but eventually
I knew that all my family members were aware.
They probably talked about it behind my back.
I resisted it conceptually, but I knew it was true.
Denial is the major component
of the early stages of dementia.
It happens so slowly that it is easy
for you to make excuses in the beginning.
No one has ever said this to me,
but I am certain that I was
the last person to this party.
