Fading Image: A Mother and Daughter Their Journey Through the Mire of Alzheimer's

FADING IMAGE is an absolute must read! It gives first hand insight to the world of Alzheimer's experienced by a daughter who conquers obstacle after obstacle with unconditional love and determination for a mother living in the fog of AD. For those whose lives have been turned inside out by this debilitating disease, this book is for you. Mary shares with you her journey and how her mother's battle with AD soon became her own. She never fails to give credit to her faith and how God opened doors that may never have been opened had she not looked to Him for the keys. For those of you who have concerns that a loved one may be showing early signs of AD and you just feel something is "off", this book is for you. Don't wait....take action now to find help for them. There is a network of physicians, counselors and caregivers available to answer your questions and give you direction. For those of you who have not been personally affected by AD, but are watching from the sidelines a friend or a friend's loved one battling this monster, this book is for you. Share Mary's story with them to give them hope and encouragement to move forward on behalf of their loved one. Emotions will run high as you experience with Mary the beginning, the middle and the end of her fight for her mother's welfare and her dignity. The obstacles she faced were many but her strong faith she's certain carried her through her journey along with the many angels she met along the way. There is much unknown and unanswered about this disease and much to be learned. This book is a guide to many of the questions you will have and a beam of light to those whose world has been darkened by the veil of AD. Mary's battle not only entailed dealing with her mother's physical and mental well being but with people as well. Beware of those who masquerade as your loved one's ally but rather have an agenda to not only take advantage of their illness with physical neglect but their finances also. The laws protecting those impaired by AD and other mental illnesses are in need of change desperately. Not only are people capable of the unthinkable but well known financial institutions can be a threat as well. I believe this will be Mary's future mission to accomplish this task with the same determination and resolve she had to fight and overcome the ravages of her mom's AD. Be prepared to laugh, to cry, and to find yourself cheering Mary along as you share an emotional roller coaster ride with her into the world of Alzheimer's! Enjoy her honesty, her humor and her poetry as well as her openness to share such a personal experience with the world! It is so worth the read!

This book is a beautiful portrait of unconditional love. Mary faced a "giant" that was relentless in taking her mom's life - Alzheimer's. While reading about Mary's care taking journey, I laughed, wept, and yet in the end felt such admiration and respect for the way a daughter deals with such a cruel disease that she accepts as God's will. Although not always easy to read - I recommend this book for anyone that wants to experience authenticity at its finest. You will be blessed.

Great job giving others an understanding of this terrible disease. I love the way you describe the journey that you and your Mom had. I am glad you took the time to write this book, it was certainly well worth the time to read it. You gave an insightful view of what this disease does to the person stricken with it and what it does to the other people who love them. Thank you very much for sharing your story.

Mary, we have given a copy of your book to one of our neighbors. This dear sweet lady has had the experience of Alzheimers and Dementia in her life of approximately 80 years. Once she had the book for a few days she came to greet us at the curb in front of her house as we drove by. She was trying to express her appreciation for the book through tear filled eyes. Her words were "I would read awhile, cry awhile." What a dear precious treasure you have contributed to mankind. Thank you for being obedient to the Lord's leadership as you shared the painful experience of the journey with your mother. This book will minister to the lives of many for years and years to come. Love, Love, Love and thanks!!

I loved the book! It brought back so many memories of my Mother! The poems are incredible. Everyone should read this book. It is very informative, but it is also about the love between a Mother and Daughter. A relationship that lasts a lifetime!!!

Thank you, Mary, for giving us insight into the struggles of families facing Alzheimer's. I was especially touched to read tidbits of your mama's life story. She was a dynamo and so accomplished. You never lost your ability to see her as she really was, though the disease made it difficult as she truly faded away before your very eyes. Your story was an education as well as an inspiration. Your perseverance as you fought to take over management of her care mirrors what many I am sure are facing. It is hopeful to see that it can in fact work out. God bless you, Mary, for sharing the love of a daughter for her dear mama.

A really well written and touching chronicle of the writer's journey through her mother's Alzheimer's disease. Although the ending is known, it is a fascinating and compelling roller coaster! It covers the day to day decisions, frustrations and pain, as well as simple and sometimes humorous tasks that spontaneously and hilariously come up. Alzheimer's Disease is called the "Long Goodbye" for a very good reason. Ms. Birdwell is the primary caretaker for her Mom. This book demonstrates the love and dedication (some parts easy, some parts difficult) required of the caretaker. It also describes the unfortunate topic of elder abuse and financial exploitation that can affect the AD sufferer, frequently without their knowledge and understanding. Read the book and learn something. This book has everything in it!

Reading Fading Image was like watching Maleficent. OK, that’s stretch but the emotion of “true love” fits perfectly with this book detailing Mary’s experience with her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. The book is about joy even through the despair of loss. How people as caregivers can cope and provide dignity to those we love. Mary has done her mother a great service in honoring her disease, the darkness and her death with this beautiful book. The day-to-day things that come up that no information sheet from the doctor or the internet can give you about the disease. Invaluable information. Like the love of a mother for her children, this daughter's journey was one of True Love for her mother. Beautiful.

Thank you Mary for sharing your journey. The unconditional love you showed your mother is so inspiring. Throughout the book I could feel your emotions of love, laughter and fear. You handled it all with grace. I love how you give God All the glory. Without him we are nothing. Thankfully you will be dancing again one day with your Mom. The information you share will be so helpful to anyone starting to notice the signs of Alzheimer's. I will definitely be sharing this book with others. God has truly blessed you with the gift of writing

Such a wonderfully informative and insightful book. I was afraid that this would be a sad read for me. I knew Rosie and did not want to remember her as having had this horrible disease. Such was not the case. It was informative in regards to AD, but the real Rosie came shining through. She was one tough cookie, but such a sweet lady, and so full of life and love. I remember lots of laughs and happiness. I definitely learned a lot about AD and so admire Mary for putting all her struggles out there. Her mother would be so proud of her....and I'm very sure she is.

FADING IMAGE is an absolute must read! It gives first hand insight to the world of Alzheimer's experienced by a daughter who conquers obstacle after obstacle with unconditional love and determination for a mother living in the fog of AD. For those whose lives have been turned inside out by this debilitating disease, this book is for you. Mary shares with you her journey and how her mother's battle with AD soon became her own. She never fails to give credit to her faith and how God opened doors that may never have been opened had she not looked to Him for the keys. For those of you who have concerns that a loved one may be showing early signs of AD and you just feel something is "off", this book is for you. Don't wait....take action now to find help for them. There is a network of physicians, counselors and caregivers available to answer your questions and give you direction. For those of you who have not been personally affected by AD, but are watching from the sidelines a friend or a friend's loved one battling this monster, this book is for you. Share Mary's story with them to give them hope and encouragement to move forward on behalf of their loved one. Emotions will run high as you experience with Mary the beginning, the middle and the end of her fight for her mother's welfare and her dignity. The obstacles she faced were many but her strong faith she's certain carried her through her journey along with the many angels she met along the way. There is much unknown and unanswered about this disease and much to be learned. This book is a guide to many of the questions you will have and a beam of light to those whose world has been darkened by the veil of AD. Mary's battle not only entailed dealing with her mother's physical and mental well being but with people as well. Beware of those who masquerade as your loved one's ally but rather have an agenda to not only take advantage of their illness with physical neglect but their finances also. The laws protecting those impaired by AD and other mental illnesses are in need of change desperately. Not only are people capable of the unthinkable but well known financial institutions can be a threat as well. I believe this will be Mary's future mission to accomplish this task with the same determination and resolve she had to fight and overcome the ravages of her mom's AD. Be prepared to laugh, to cry, and to find yourself cheering Mary along as you share an emotional roller coaster ride with her into the world of Alzheimer's! Enjoy her honesty, her humor and her poetry as well as her openness to share such a personal experience with the world! It is so worth the read!

This book is a beautiful portrait of unconditional love. Mary faced a "giant" that was relentless in taking her mom's life - Alzheimer's. While reading about Mary's care taking journey, I laughed, wept, and yet in the end felt such admiration and respect for the way a daughter deals with such a cruel disease that she accepts as God's will. Although not always easy to read - I recommend this book for anyone that wants to experience authenticity at its finest. You will be blessed.

Great job giving others an understanding of this terrible disease. I love the way you describe the journey that you and your Mom had. I am glad you took the time to write this book, it was certainly well worth the time to read it. You gave an insightful view of what this disease does to the person stricken with it and what it does to the other people who love them. Thank you very much for sharing your story.

Mary, we have given a copy of your book to one of our neighbors. This dear sweet lady has had the experience of Alzheimers and Dementia in her life of approximately 80 years. Once she had the book for a few days she came to greet us at the curb in front of her house as we drove by. She was trying to express her appreciation for the book through tear filled eyes. Her words were "I would read awhile, cry awhile." What a dear precious treasure you have contributed to mankind. Thank you for being obedient to the Lord's leadership as you shared the painful experience of the journey with your mother. This book will minister to the lives of many for years and years to come. Love, Love, Love and thanks!!

I loved the book! It brought back so many memories of my Mother! The poems are incredible. Everyone should read this book. It is very informative, but it is also about the love between a Mother and Daughter. A relationship that lasts a lifetime!!!

Thank you, Mary, for giving us insight into the struggles of families facing Alzheimer's. I was especially touched to read tidbits of your mama's life story. She was a dynamo and so accomplished. You never lost your ability to see her as she really was, though the disease made it difficult as she truly faded away before your very eyes. Your story was an education as well as an inspiration. Your perseverance as you fought to take over management of her care mirrors what many I am sure are facing. It is hopeful to see that it can in fact work out. God bless you, Mary, for sharing the love of a daughter for her dear mama.

A really well written and touching chronicle of the writer's journey through her mother's Alzheimer's disease. Although the ending is known, it is a fascinating and compelling roller coaster! It covers the day to day decisions, frustrations and pain, as well as simple and sometimes humorous tasks that spontaneously and hilariously come up. Alzheimer's Disease is called the "Long Goodbye" for a very good reason. Ms. Birdwell is the primary caretaker for her Mom. This book demonstrates the love and dedication (some parts easy, some parts difficult) required of the caretaker. It also describes the unfortunate topic of elder abuse and financial exploitation that can affect the AD sufferer, frequently without their knowledge and understanding. Read the book and learn something. This book has everything in it!

Reading Fading Image was like watching Maleficent. OK, that’s stretch but the emotion of “true love” fits perfectly with this book detailing Mary’s experience with her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. The book is about joy even through the despair of loss. How people as caregivers can cope and provide dignity to those we love. Mary has done her mother a great service in honoring her disease, the darkness and her death with this beautiful book. The day-to-day things that come up that no information sheet from the doctor or the internet can give you about the disease. Invaluable information. Like the love of a mother for her children, this daughter's journey was one of True Love for her mother. Beautiful.

Thank you Mary for sharing your journey. The unconditional love you showed your mother is so inspiring. Throughout the book I could feel your emotions of love, laughter and fear. You handled it all with grace. I love how you give God All the glory. Without him we are nothing. Thankfully you will be dancing again one day with your Mom. The information you share will be so helpful to anyone starting to notice the signs of Alzheimer's. I will definitely be sharing this book with others. God has truly blessed you with the gift of writing

Such a wonderfully informative and insightful book. I was afraid that this would be a sad read for me. I knew Rosie and did not want to remember her as having had this horrible disease. Such was not the case. It was informative in regards to AD, but the real Rosie came shining through. She was one tough cookie, but such a sweet lady, and so full of life and love. I remember lots of laughs and happiness. I definitely learned a lot about AD and so admire Mary for putting all her struggles out there. Her mother would be so proud of her....and I'm very sure she is.

Excellent read. It runs the gamut of all emotions. The roller coaster ride of AD is made clear in the day to day dealings of a mother and daughter and the ravages of a horrific disease. At times unbearably sad and then you are laughing helplessly. This is a book about vulnerability and unconditional love. When you think you can't take one more step, God shows you the way. While it is hard to believe there is anything positive in the storm that is AD, Mary shows us there is always a light to follow. A must read for anyone dealing with a seemingly impossible situation.

This is a must-read for anyone who is dealing with the dreaded Alzheimer's Disease. As a daughter of a mother who has been battling Alzheimer's for over 20 years, this was a difficult but much needed read. The importance of seeing that others survive this road is crucial. I cannot thank Mary enough for the wisdom, humor, and emotion shared in this story of how she made it through. Her ability to be her mother's advocate is awe-inspiring. Thank you, Mary! You are an inspiration to all!

This author has the ability to have heartache, laughter, sadness, and other feelings in this book, which gives the reader a real interest in reading this book. You can feel the authors pain in the book and her ability to be very poetic in expressing those feelings. I know this author personally and I can tell you she was very committed to express her feelings so that her audience could feel the same through her words. I am in process of reading this book, and decided to write this review before finishing. GREAT READING!

It took me a bit to finish the book because it was so close to home. In a good way, almost like taking a moment to relish in the memories of my own personal story with my Mother who recently passed from Alzheimer's as well. This disease is such a roller coaster with good days and those painful days of our loved one not knowing us. Mary does a great job at painting the picture of the feelings that come with watching our love one "fade away"

I knew Rosemary when we were both members of the Dallas Police Department....she was a much respected detective in the days before females were allowed to work in the patrol division. I just downloaded this book and cannot wait to read it to get to know Rosemary as a person away from the Department. From all of the reviews, and from knowing the principle character, I am certain I will find the book to be an inpiration. Thanks to Mary for opening her family story to us.

Your story is so very comforting to those of us who have a loved one who has or is currently experiencing alzheimers/dementia.So much of it I could relate to and other parts have not happened yet.I will remember your words when the time comes and know they will make it easier for my family and I to walk down that path with my Dad.Your sense of humor during such a difficult and painful time ,amazes and inspires me.Thank-you for sharing your personal experience and your beautiful Mother.

My Mother recently died. She had Alzheimer's too. As I read this book, it was like I was re-living the past with her. So many of the things that Mary talks about happened to us! It's amazing the similarities I found between our relationships with our Mothers. I had some questions answered, but mostly I remembered again how much I loved my Mother.

I loved this book on so many levels and if you know of someone fighting this debilitating disease you would be remiss not to read it and share it with others. This true story will warm your heart and soul...it will teach you to never give up no matter what is put in front of you, and most importantly how the love of family, friends, and God will help carry you through the most difficult of times.

If you enjoy elation than you wont hesitate to purchase this book. I will guarantee it to stir every emotion in a pleasant way. You will experience a daughter's journey with her mother in their battle with alzheimer's from onset to funeral. The material is professionally written and I recommend it highly. Ray Eldridge

A beautiful book dealing with a disease that so many of us dread, for our loved ones and ourselves.

This book provides insight of a mother and daughter's journey through this terrible disease. This book was filled with so much emotion and love that I could not put it down! Very well written. Mary is an inspiration for us all!

WOW WHAT A BOOK OF LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING IN A CHILD/PARENT RELATIONSHIP. A MUST READ FOR ALL OF US. PLEASE BUY IT, READ IT AND PASS IT ON TO SOMEONE ELSE WHOM IT WILL HELP TO UNDERSTAND

From tears to laughter as you read a heartwarming account of a mother and daughter coping with Alzheimer’s!

This book is an absolute must read! Mary captured the true spirit and love that was her Mom, who lives on in this beautiful story, so beautifully written about her.

What a great story. Loved the book! Such an inspiration to me. Thank you for sharing your story. Stephen Thompson

Wonderful story. Great book.

I’m so grateful for this book. The author documents her mother’s battle with this disease and how her mother changed bit by bit everyday. I’m also going through this with my mom and it was comforting to know that I am not alone. It helped prepare me for what was coming and what’s probably going to come. I felt like I was reading about my own experience in dealing with my mother’s dementia. What a horrible Illness! But I’m so glad to have found this book. I believe this book will help and prepare anyone who is dealing with a family member who is starting to show signs of dementia. You can’t learn this from medical books....

Firstly, I'd like to thank Mary Birdwell for my free pdf copy of her story. Secondly, this is my unbiased opinion of same. Thirdly, The quotes you will read in this review are taken from this book. Some will be from famous people and some will be of the authors own creation. Fourthly, you will need a box of tissues while you read; to blot dry your cheeks as you tear up, wipe away the tears while you weep or to cover your mouth as you giggle or snort while you laugh aloud. I have nothing but admiration for the young woman who wrote this book . Her physical strength might have slightly faltered ( wouldn't have yours?) but her resolve and faith never did, as she took the painful journey along side her mother as she was slowly entrenched in the bottomless pit of Alzheimer`s. There is a saying used in warfare: `` take no prisoners``, which basically means capture and kill. While Alzheimers imprisons the victims and their allies it eventually stands the sufferer against that final wall and yells `fire.` The author`s battle with elderly abuse infiltrates and initially weakens her efforts to rescue her mom and she probably deserves a medal of recognition for how she struggled to get her mom to safety. But she was victorious. `` In the words of a very wise Jewish girl “ In spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart. I simply can’t build up my hopes on a foundation consisting of confusion, misery and death.” -Anne Frank, The Diary of a Young Girl `` Mary Birdwell`s book Dedication is a most beautiful thank you to all who shouldered on with her and her family. The forward, by Harry Cates ( LPC ), is an intelligent , heartfelt assessment of the authors story. But also about his hope that we will learn to help the senior generation and what can happen to the elders in society if we stay in denial , don`t pay attention to the red flags and don`t ask for help when WE need it. During the few years that preceded the completion of this book , Mary Birdwell kept an online journal of the events and her emotions as she stayed by her mothers side during this long walk. ( this information has been removed from Face Book because of publication legalities). The loving promise to her mom of telling their story is what this book holds. She has said herself that it `` is not a sad story. It is a story of love between a mother and daughter. A story of growth, acceptance, tears and laughter. It is a story about faith and love. It is a story about some of the brightest stars in the universe, people with Alzheimer’s. The most brilliant, brightest star to me has always been my mom.`` ( I used this quote because there are no better words to describe this story) “Although the world is full of suffering, it is full also of the overcoming of it.” -Helen Keller `` Of course Alzheimer’s robs and takes what it wants, but we can choose to take something also. I will take love from it in any way I can. ``( page 84) - Mary Birdwell ``Regrets are non-refundable`` - Mary Birdwell During this time Mary discovered a mother that she never knew, a humble , modest trailblazer. A brave, compassionate and beautiful woman that so many others new and loved. A mother who was `just doing her job``. Finding out so many things about her mother's life that she wasn't aware of brought a new light, respect , love and pride into the relationship with her mom. Learning of her mother's past and sharing the Alzheimer's war with her, helped the author learn about herself. Brilliant revelations,masterfully used quotes ( some of her own making) private photographs and personally written poetry, intensified the emotional responses to this story. “Death is the opening of a more subtle life. In the flower, it sets free the perfume; in the chrysalis, the butterfly; in man, the soul.” - Juliette Adam page96 A joy for life and an incredible sense of humour lighten the intensity of this story, a story that needed to be told. The author has said that from the telling of this story she hoped to help others going through the same struggles. What she hadn`t realized is that this book can help countless others - identify and hold back what might yet come. “While we have opportunity, let us do good to all people.” -Galatians 5:10 I can only hope that I have done justice for this beautiful story in my review. If you read only one book about a journey through Alzheimer`s this year ,this is the one you should seek. As a matter of fact , if you only read one book this year, this should be it.

This is the story of my beautiful Aunt Rosemary and my cousin, Mary's fight to protect her from her abusers and to love and help her Mom thru the disease of Alzheimer's. You will read of my cousin's acts of bravery and perseverance to fight for her Mother to the very end and to see to it that her Mom's dignity and final end of life wishes were fulfilled. Mary not only tells her story and her experiences but she also shares many recommendations for others facing this disease with their loved ones. You will witness what I know about my cousin and that is she is a giver and a lover and will share hope and encouragement on how to overcome obstacles and to get through each day and each struggle. It's almost like she's your personal counselor and coach when dealing with this disease with your family. Rosemary was my Mom's precious sister and was also a very giving person. Mary certainly inherited this trait from her Mom and also her Dedman grit and perseverance to not give up in the face of trials. You will come away encouraged and know you are not alone in this after reading this book...And the greatest of these is love!

What can I say about this book? One of the best books I have read so far. Makes you realize how precious life is and how we should enjoy every minute of it. I have read the book and is now being read by a co-worker and her daughter. Both are dealing with the struggles of Alzheimer's. Mary, thank you for walking us through your journey. I would highly recommend this book to everyone.

Fading Image is a must-read book for anyone who has a loved one suffering from Alzheimer's disease. The disease itself isn't clearly defined and presents a variety of disturbing symptoms depending on the individual. One thing the author makes clear is the fact that the person with Alzheimer's isn't (and can never be) the same person you knew before. Fading Image describes the daily struggles and successes the author faced with her own mother's dementia. It is a tender story that unfolds in emotional Facebook messages and wonderful family photographs. The book shows the strength required to handle the ever-changing and forever deteriorating Alzheimer personality. The author's strength consistently rebounds from the depths of despair. Along the way, it led to an undeniable spiritual awakening for the author, which is surprise gift. It's a true story about family love at its core. Moreover, it's a well-written book that offers peace of mind and great hope for those who may feel overwhelmed dealing with this deadly disease.

Personally and Thank God, we have not yet directly experienced Alzheimers in my family. But I bought 10 copies of "Fading Image" and have gifted several friends who have dealt with or presently dealing with loved ones with Alzheimers. They all have expressed their thankfulness for my sharing the book with them.

I was a little hesitant to read this book. I really believed that it would be so incredibly sad , and that I would be depressed after finishing. I couldn't have been more wrong! There are definitely sad parts, passages filled with raw emotion. Mary Birdwell's overwhelming faith keeps her going. The inspirational story begins with mother and daughter changing roles. Mary becomes the "mama Bear" and her mother, the cub. Mary assumes the job of protector, provider, nurturer, and advocate. As the disease progresses, Mary has to rely on her faith more and more. The support received from friends, family, caregivers, and neighbors prove once again, there are still good people in this world. The underlying message I felt after reading "Fading Image" is that even at the lowest point of our lives, God's love surrounds us, and sustains us to a better day. The bond of love between mother and child is heartwarming, but the often unexpected display of love from "strangers" give us a renewed sense of hope and joy.

I was only 18 years old when I first met Rosemary. She was one of the reasons I became a police officer. I was so impressed with her dedication of the police department. I was in awe as to how Matter of Factly she did her job. Over the years I had lost touch with her and had no idea that she had Alzheimer's. My mother, also had this horrible disease. This book helped me understand how I felt about things my mother did in her last years. I would get mad at her, but didn't realize that it was the disease I was mad at, and not my mom. This is a must read for anyone that may be going through the life changes that Alzheimer's causes.

"Fading Image" is a book for the ages. Poignant, real, and lovingly written for anyone who has ever felt like the underdog. It is a must read! Mary crafts the story of how she found her mother through the maze of Alzheimer's and how love in the end--really does conquer all! You will find yourself cheering for Mary and her mother, Rosemary, as they have the courage to tackle the Alzheimer's "monster" head on. The book is informative for anyone caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's and its main objective is to make one not feel alone. Prepare to cry, laugh, and cheer them both to the finish line. P.S. Personally, I wasn't prepared to cry so much after the book had ended.---I simply cannot wait to see what Mary Ray Birdwell delivers up next!

This book is a true story of a daughters journey with her Mothers diagnosis of Alzheimer's. Mary captures your attention and makes it hard to put this book down. She writes so that the reader has an insight on day to day activities with her loved one. She tells the story that has you laughing one minute, and the awful truth of the disease grabs you the next minute. Being in the customer service industry, I have several clients that have loved ones with AZ. This book helped them understand more about what to expect. I highly recommend this read as it is told with a positive vibe! Mothers are special and Mary's mother was a true gem!

This was a beautiful read! I was blessed to know Rosie. I continue to be blessed with Mary and Mindy and all the rest if the family for a lot of years now. I was honored to read this book and learn things that I didn't know about Rosie. To feel the struggle that this family went through with a loved suffering with AD...it was felt for this family while reading this book. This was such a beautiful way to honor your Mother, Mary! And things that you shared for those that are dealing with AD, in some fashion, is truly a blessing! Thank you for sharing! Much love, Cherisa

Reading Fading Image was like reading the story of the life I am living with my Mama. There were so many similarities, so many paragraphs that made me cry, think, laugh, and reflect. Reading about what is yet to come initially was frightening, yet by the time I finished it, I felt a sense of calm and empowerment. I can see Us in this story - Me and Mama on the journey Gad has given us and will see us through. Thank you, Mary, for sharing your journey with the Alzheimer's family. We are all members of the same relation. God has blessed you with the ability to bless others! Jo Lynn Miller

Fading Image is a wonderful heartfelt read that will stir up all your emotions. It will make you laugh, cry and teach you about the most important relationship you have in life. That special unique one you have or had with your mother. Mary has a way of making you feel like you are part of her family as they are going through such a hard time with Alzheimer's disease. Mary's excellent writing skills and personality shines throughout her writings.The readers will be pulled in and will leave feeling they learned special about life and relationships. Janice Boudreau

Fading image is a great book that shares a story about a mother that suffers from Alzheimer's , and Marry is the sweet person who stands with her mother in good and bad times . I loved this book because it's has a marvelous poems that I can not describe how good meaning it is , it's like God sending her all these words in a book , so touchable . Thank you marry for sharing your story with us .

I loved this book. I learned things I never knew, it helped me understand so much. At first I was afraid it would depress me. But instead it was a learning process. And of course Mary is going to make you laugh. I'm so glad I read it once, and will be reading it again, just in case I missed something. Love the book and love the author.

I am one of her mom's former caregivers and I went through the ups n downs with the family and it brings memories as well as tears to me to think about her. I can distinctly remember one day when Rose went into police officer mode on me lol and followed me around my whole shift wanting to know what I was doing in Peoples rooms and would I stop pilfering in their stuff before she arrested me. Lol I had laughs many older stories tears when she was ill it was like another family member.

Mary has such a gift for laying her heart out on paper. The book is raw and real. I read it in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. This horrible disease can only be managed with insight and information from those who have gone before us. I highly recommend this book if you are entering the Alzheimer's journey with a loved one. Mary has plowed the row and planted the seeds for the rest of us to reap the harvest. Thank you, Mary.

I enjoyed this book immensely. It gave you insight into the writer's personal experiences while dealing with such a crippling disease. It helped to provide resources, reasons why the reader could be experiencing something similar, and a heartfelt connection to the intimate relationship between a mother and daughter. I highly recommend this book if you are dealing with something similar or if you just want to understand the condition further.

I took care of Mrs. Birdwell mother such a sweet lady.. 😊 Rosy

Very heart touching, almost everyone these days knows or knew someone suffering with Alzheimer's. In this book, Mary takes you along on her journey with her mother and this debilitating disease. This is a must read for everyone. *Warning, keep your box of Kleenex close, lol.

This was such an expressive and informative read. I'm the only one in my family that doesn't read a lot. I read it one night and finished it the next morning. I would have finished it but I wanted to see the closing ceremony of the Olympics. It was such a loving and truthful account of her mothers illness. She is an excellent writer. Thank you Mary!

This wonderful book is so helpful to me right now. The author's journey through this awful disease with her mom is inspirational, heartwarming and sad all at the same time. Thank you Mary, for sharing such a personal story.

You are an amazing inspirational writer!!! This is a terrible disease that is takes away ones independence and vulnerability!!! The love you have with your Mother is incredible. Well done Mary! Look forward to more books from you!!!!!!!