Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver in Ottawa, shares her heartfelt experience with a special folk art calendar that has been a consistent part of her family’s Christmas tradition for nearly 30 years. The calendar was either a gift or a choice made by her mom, who cherished it every Christmas season. Growing up in Toronto, the holidays were always joyous for Nicole’s family, and the art calendar held a special place in her mother’s heart, especially admiring the December scenes.
In 2015, at 68, Nicole’s mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, having previously supported her father through the same illness. Despite the challenges of memory loss and tasks, her mother remained optimistic and cheerful. Over the years, as the disease progressed, her parents relocated to an Ottawa retirement home, and later, her mom transitioned to memory care due to her condition.
Despite her mother’s cognitive decline where she could no longer engage with the calendar, Nicole continued the tradition each year. Even as her mom’s health deteriorated, Nicole found solace in sharing the calendar with her during visits, turning the pages, and reminiscing about the artwork, hoping to maintain a connection to their family traditions. The ritual provided a sense of purpose and familiarity in their changed relationship, offering comfort and hope amidst the challenges of Alzheimer’s.
In the midst of a difficult journey with her mother’s illness, the annual calendar gift symbolizes Nicole’s enduring love, spiritual beliefs, and a way to create a comforting atmosphere for her mom, transcending the physical limitations imposed by Alzheimer’s. Despite the hardships, the calendar remains a beacon of resilience, love, and continuity in their evolving relationship.
