Dementia is a disease that affects millions of people around the globe, and it can be devastating for both the person with the illness and their loved ones. The experience of caring for someone with dementia can be challenging, emotional, and life-changing. In this post, I had the pleasure of interviewing Cynthia D. Kline, an author who has written a book about her journey with her fiance’s diagnosis of dementia. Her book, “The Wake Up Call,” is a memoir of sorts, chronicling her mother’s decline and the lessons she learned along the way. Join me as we explore her story and the valuable insights she provides for coping through dementia.
When author Cynthia D. Kline’s fiancé of 15 years was diagnosed with rapid declining dementia, their world turned upside down. A mere 5 months later, he passed away, leaving her to navigate the turbulent waters of grief and helplessness. Yet, in the midst of despair, she found strength to fight the California system, as well as purpose as an advocate.
Watching a loved one fade away before your eyes is a harrowing reality. The W.H.O. has stated that over 55 million people are diagnosed with dementia, with no cure, no help, and no medications. Through her deeply personal and raw narrative, Cynthia Kline sheds light on the every day complexities, the unexpected twists and turns, and the emotional toll dementia can take on the caregiver. The Wake Up Call is not only a tear-jerker; it’s something the reader will never forget.
Do you see your memoir as a tool for raising awareness about dementia and its impact on families? If so, what message or awareness do you hope to contribute through your book?
Yes, I absolutely know for certain my book The Wake Up Call raises awareness for anyone who finds themselves in the caregiver role. It’s a raw, truthful exploration in watching and helping someone you love lose all mental capacity
At present the W.H.O. has estimated more than 55 million people in the world have been diagnosed with dementia. And its growing. Many of the reviews of my book on Amazon specifically state, “this is a MUST READ book,” for anyone caring for a loved one with dementia.
Who do you envision as the primary audience for The Wake Up Call? What do you hope readers, especially those who may be facing similar challenges, will take away from your memoir?
I see my audience of readers as loving family and friends who find themselves in a thankless but important role. Rapid declining dementia is like being in freefall… nothing you can really do, but be present, be mindful, be kind. The loved one, in my case my fiancé of 15 years, went from diagnosis to death in 5 months and I remained a pillar of strength and his advocate till the very end.
How did you navigate the emotional landscape of love and loss in the context of dementia while writing your memoir? Were there particular moments or aspects of this journey that were especially challenging to capture in words?
Ahh, the trick question.
This is a ride like no other. My fiancé was a known genius in the business world. He was famous on the NY Stock Exchange and in business in NYC. That was a main reason I fell in love with him. His mind was a constant learning curve for me, a joy, and what I will miss most. He taught me so much, and for that I’m forever grateful. But the ironic part is what he was most adept at, is what failed him in the last months-he was a financial genius until his dementia set in. He lost everything he’d worked 30 years for.
The loss, I discuss in my book, is emotional and real. In my case, totally a financial loss that I was unprepared for because he became delusional and good at it. In rapid declining dementia, this is often the case-a total delusional state in finances. My fiancé had been extremely wealthy but that was years before-by the beginning of the end of his dementia, he’d lost everything. But in his mind he was in the same wealth state as thirty years ago.
What advice would you give to others who may be facing similar challenges with dementia in their families, and how can your memoir provide support and guidance?
Every woman should read this book for strength and salvation. As to be independent, truly independent, is something I was not, and will always advocate. Learn everything no matter how uncomfortable the answers may be. In my case, I became homeless temporarily, if not for family help. This needn’t be.
The Wake Up Call: A Memoir on Dementia’s Harsh Reality and Navigating it Through Love and Loss
A heartrending journey of love, loss, and resilience. When Cynthia Kline’s partner of 15 years was diagnosed with rapid declining dementia, their world turned upside down. A mere five months later, he passed away, leaving Cynthia to navigate the turbulent waters of grief and helplessness. Yet, in the midst of despair, she found strength and purpose. The Wake Up Call is more than just a memoir of loss; it’s a beacon of hope and a guidebook for those treading the challenging path of caring for a loved one with dementia. Through her deeply personal and raw narrative, Cynthia sheds light on the everyday complexities, the unexpected twists and turns, and the emotional toll it takes on the caregiver.
Discover:
- The harrowing reality of watching a loved one fade away before your eyes.
- Practical insights and advice on handling the unpredictable nature of dementia.
- The importance of preparing mentally, physically, and financially for the unexpected.
- Coping mechanisms and strategies to find solace in the midst of adversity.
- Stories of resilience and courage that will inspire and uplift.
Dementia doesn’t just impact the afflicted; it casts a shadow on everyone who loves them. If you or someone you know is grappling with the devastating effects of dementia, let her journey be your guide, showing you that even in the darkest moments, there is always a glimmer of hope.
Pick up The Wake Up Call today to find strength and encouragement
Coping through dementia can be one of the most challenging and emotional experiences one can go through. Cynthia D. Kline’s book “The Wake Up Call” provides valuable insights and advice for anyone who may be caring for a loved one with dementia. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to go through this journey alone and that there is hope and support available. In the end, it’s important to remember to take care of yourself, cherish the moments you have, and seek out resources and support.
