Brain Fog

A library five minutes away from home is essential to my health and well-being. Stopping by to browse, pick up a Hold, perhaps attend a program, or simply spend some time reading in a lovely environment, is always a welcome gift, available almost any day of the year. The library is a vital space for seniors, especially those living alone, for anyone facing a life-limiting illness, and for caregivers. Isolation can literally kill you, and there are many experiences in life that can lead to loneliness.

A close friend of mine was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, and the library became a place that helped her in her healing journey. Radiation to the brain was recommended, because the cancer had spread there, and with the "brain fog" that resulted, she lost her ability to read. I knew she loved books, an avid reader since her childhood, and she had enjoyed many hours reading to her children. I decided to bring her a few picture books from the library, mostly to help her re-live the literary pleasures of motherhood. Kids' books are so much richer, with their images, not all full of black and white words. My friend was delighted, and it helped her focus on something positive as she was slowly recovering from the radiation. The next thing I knew, she asked me to bring her a favourite story from her childhood, The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett, and she was reading it on her own.

Sharing stories when a friend is facing the end of their days is a gift that creates beautiful memories. That is a whole other story...