Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver in Ottawa, reflects on her family’s long-standing tradition of gifting her mother a folk art calendar every Christmas. The calendar, a cherished item for nearly three decades, holds sentimental value as a recurring present in their holiday celebrations.
Initially introduced to the calendar in Toronto, where family festivities were always joyous, Robichaud’s mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2015 marked a turning point. Despite the challenges brought by the disease’s progression, the tradition continued as her mother transitioned to different living arrangements within Ottawa.
As Alzheimer’s took its toll and her mother’s cognitive abilities diminished, the calendar’s significance evolved. Though her mother could no longer interact with the gift as before, Robichaud found solace in the ritual of sharing the calendar’s artwork with her during visits. This simple act of turning the pages and reminiscing about the images became a meaningful connection point amidst the difficulties of the disease.
In the face of the emotional complexities of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, the annual ritual of gifting the calendar has become a symbol of love, continuity, and hope for Robichaud. It serves as a way to honor their shared past, maintain a sense of tradition, and provide a comforting presence in her mother’s changing world. Despite the challenges, Robichaud finds purpose and solace in continuing this heartfelt tradition each year.
