This trip to UBC went much better.  There was no great news from the good doctor but involving Mom with UBC gave me telephone access later in her disease for some of the decisions I had to make for her. I would speak with her local GP, the local pharmacist, and then call UBC to discuss the care plan I would be implementing.  I am forever grateful for their long distance accessibility.

We took a city bus clear across Vancouver to the base of Grouse Mountain.  Mom chatted with various people on the bus and I learned how to be less afraid of people’s reactions.  We took the gondola to the top and Mom breathed in the fresh mountain air.  Mountains were always home for her soul and she beamed the entire day.

Later that evening we met family for dinner in a local restaurant. Mom was starting to have trouble eating but still liked to go out.  It was a bit tough on us as we were raised with proper table manners. I learned over time it was better to choose a spot where fewer people could watch Mom and she faced me. Easier for both of us.

She continued to enjoy restaurants for many more years and again was teaching other people to get over their discomfort.  People would stop at our table and engage Mom in conversations as she was the Queen!

It was interesting how many people would make the effort to chat with Mom and how charming and patient they were.  On one trip we had enjoyed a busker outside and had gone in to warm up with a coffee.  When the musician came in on his break he made a directly line to Mom to chat with her for a few minutes.  She beamed with the attention and the fact that he was quite handsome was not lost on her!

It is much harder for us to see the change in those we care for then for others.  Keep looking for what they still see as opposed to looking for what has been lost for ever.