“Do You Know Who I Am?” – A Moment With My Dad

The scariest thing to ask your loved one who suffers from dementia is, "Do you know who I am?"

You hold your breath waiting for the answer. When your name comes out of their lips, it feels like a gut punch in the weirdest way. You’re so very grateful it came out, but so aware that any time could be the last.

I asked Dad today, "Do you know who I am?"

"Well, I used to," he said.

"Well, who do you think I am?" I asked, holding my breath for the response.

"I think you're my daughter."

"Yeah, Dad," I said through tears, "I'm your daughter. Do you know my name?"

"Well... I think it's Cheryl."

"Yeah, Dad... it's Cheryl. I love you," I said, as I kissed him on the head.

Whew... today wasn't the day...