In Ottawa, Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver, reflects on the enduring tradition of a folk art calendar gifted to her mother nearly three decades ago. Each Christmas, the calendar has been a consistent present in their family, cherished by her mom for its vibrant paintings, especially enjoying the snowy scenes of December.
In 2015, at 68 years old, her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, having previously cared for her own father with the same illness. Despite the challenges of memory loss and declining abilities, she remained positive and resilient. Over the years, as the disease progressed, her parents relocated to a retirement home near Nicole in Ottawa. Following her father’s passing, her mother moved to the memory care floor and later to a smaller suite in 2021, as her condition deteriorated.
Despite her mother’s advancing Alzheimer’s, the folk art calendar remained a constant presence. As her mother’s cognitive functions declined, Nicole found solace in continuing the tradition of ordering the calendar each year. Even with her mother’s diminished ability to engage with the calendar, Nicole persisted in sharing the pictures and memories, offering a sense of purpose to their visits.
In the face of the challenges posed by her mother’s illness, the calendar symbolizes a connection to their shared past and traditions. It serves as a meaningful gesture of love and continuity amid the changes brought about by Alzheimer’s. Nicole believes that the act of giving the calendar conveys her deep affection, creating a familiar and comforting environment for her mother, transcending mere physical presence.
Through the simple act of turning the pages of the calendar, Nicole finds a way to express her spiritual beliefs and provide comfort to her mother in a time of uncertainty. The tradition represents a source of hope, purpose, and consolation amidst the difficult journey they navigate together, offering a reminder of the enduring bond they share.
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