[AtLast]

Each year during the holidays I see how much my brother-in-law has declined due to Alzheimer's. Also, how stressed my sister is in her caretaking of him. They actually have it much better than so many other couples/families dealing with this disease because they do have good pensions and healthcare and adult children ready to help out, yet, it is very difficult. Families without resources dealing with this long-term illness and it's consequences go through more hell. My sister goes to a support group and although she gets a lot from sharing this experience with others dealing with a loved one with Alzheimers, she gets really upset with what so many others do without because of their lack of support and resources. These groups do engage in pooling resources and lending a hand, but fergoddessakes, these folks are going through such an emotional roller coaster. The whole damn thing is just plain sad.