To be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease is certainly quite a shock, especially at the age of 47.
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This is what Patricia Gilbert had to take, who is now completely dependent on her loved ones.
In March 2017, during an appointment with her neurologist at Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital, Patricia Gilbert revealed to our journalist Harold Gagné that she had been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for a few months.
5 years have passed since his diagnosis, and his health has deteriorated greatly.
“She is no longer able to walk, she hardly sees anymore,” explains Normand Audet, caregiver and spouse of Ms. Gilbert. “She is there physically, but we can no longer talk to each other like before.”
She still recognizes her lover, with whom she has shared her life for 25 years and who takes care of her continuously at home, with the help of a CLSC worker who helps them 22 hours a week.
“I have a feeling of abandonment which is still there”, explains Normand who says that it is out of the question for him to place his better half in a CHSLD.
About 5 years ago with Patricia, they took part in a press conference in favor of early medical assistance in dying.
People who want it, and able to consent, could sign a document authorizing this help once they are incapacitated and sick.
“They are going to be sick and their health is deteriorating, it does nothing to let people suffer,” laments Mr. Audet.
The Government of Quebec has adopted a bill to this effect, but the law is long overdue.
“I made the choice that I would not experience Alzheimer’s disease at this stage,” explains Sandra Demontigny, who campaigns for the adoption of this law and is also suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.
“What I want is to have medical assistance in dying,” she said. “From the moment when I will have difficulty recognizing my loved ones, my children, in particular, that is what I want.”