Still Alice (↑)

Although I have no job yet, I've gotten busy the past few weeks, and so this blog post was a long time coming. It took me forever to finish the book, but not because I didn't like it, but rather because I didn't have the time to read it. I've finished the novel, Still Alice by Lisa Genova. This book made me sad because it really hits home what it feels like to have Alzheimer's Disease. Everyone always hears about it from the caregiver's view, but it was refreshing to hear about it from the individual suffering from it. It was sad as it continued on the fact that she basically seemed like a zombie, without thought or simple thoughts. It was like she was a child. A woman who was so intelligent brought down to that level. It was also upsetting to read when she forgot her children's names, or didn't recognize them, and it got even worse when she didn't recognize her husband. I hope that when I get older I don't develop Alzheimer's or dementia. But honestly, I don't know what would be worse...losing my memories/mind or losing function of my body. Both would be terrible.

Anyway, this novel is about a woman who finds out she has Early-Onset Alzheimer's Disease. It follows the disease's progression throughout 2 years until basically she is without a memory. It follows her thoughts and frustrations as she loses her language ability, her ability to remember her children and family and ability to dress herself. It's a sad novel, but one that raises awareness for others as to what it feels like.

I have to say that I would recommend it to people who are caregivers for those with Alzheimer's or are interested in learning more about it. I look forward to reading her Lisa Genova's next book.

I'm not sure what I will be starting next, but most likely it will be on my ereader (which has to charge) so until then, Happy Reading!