More than 26 million people world wide suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and, according to the latest estimates, this number could quadruple by the year 2050. This is something that concerns us all.
More than 26 million people world wide suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and, according to the latest estimates, this number could quadruple by the year 2050. This is something that concerns us all.
World Alzheimer’s Day took place on the 21st September. It has been commemorated for the fifteenth time in numerous countries where huge efforts are being made to find solutions and to help sufferers and their families to confront this illness.
This day may have passed unnoticed by many of us, in spite of the fact that Alzheimer’s affects us closely. Members of our families as well a good number of our Sisters are affected.
This illness can turn families upside down and adversely affect relationships within the family. It can reverse established roles in the family, turning children into carers. Often both sufferers and carers feel very isolated.
Alzheimer’s also affects our religious communities. Here we would like to share with you the experience of our Contemplative Sisters in Martillac who are lovingly accompanying Sister Felicity in her illness.
A BELOVED SISTER
Felicity was born on March 30th 1924 at Polvorosa de Valdavia, near León in She entered the Novitiate in Oharriz on the 21st February 1942 when she was barely 18 years old. She made her final vows on the 26th September 1946 and worked in the convent kitchen, first of all in the community at She continued her work in the kitchen, which she regarded as her mission. She was always available to everyone and to do anything. That is the outstanding characteristic of this sister during more than 50 years of her hidden life.
However gradually the community noticed that her ability and her strength had begun to diminish: she began to need constant help and accompaniment and it was discovered that she was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. It became urgent to take a decision to place her in a residence where she would receive adequate and specialised care. This was a very difficult decision for the community but it was one that was taken together and accepted by all.
A retirement home – run by the Sisters of St. Joseph – have part of their building specially designed for Alzheimer’s sufferers. Sr. Felicity was accepted. To begin with we accompanied her to the day - care facility. Then gradually she became inserted as a permanent resident. This was very difficult for all of us, but in hindsight, we know it is the best thing for her. She is very happy there now.