When Robin Thomson and his wife Shoko were told she had Alzheimer’s, they had no clue what lay ahead. As the disease gradually took over their lives, Robin watched as his adventurous and independent wife slowly seemed to disappear. The struggles he and their adult children faced were painful and real. They experienced both frustration and great support as they navigated the health and social care systems. Yet Shoko’s love was constant and Robin found himself invited into a deeply spiritual journey with his wife. This honest and hope-filled account is a must-read for caregivers, families and friends of those affected, with its practical insights, and advice on further resources. But it is also for all of us. It shows how we can respond to this mysterious disease, not with fear and incomprehension but with love and creative friendship.

When Robin Thomson and his wife Shoko were told she had Alzheimer’s, they had no clue what lay ahead. As the disease gradually took over their lives, Robin watched as his adventurous and independent wife slowly seemed to disappear. The struggles he and their adult children faced were painful and real. They experienced both frustration and great support as they navigated the health and social care systems. Yet Shoko’s love was constant and Robin found himself invited into a deeply spiritual journey with his wife. This honest and hope-filled account is a must-read for caregivers, families and friends of those affected, with its practical insights, and advice on further resources. But it is also for all of us. It shows how we can respond to this mysterious disease, not with fear and incomprehension but with love and creative friendship.

When Robin Thomson and his wife Shoko were told she had Alzheimer’s, they had no clue what lay ahead. As the disease gradually took over their lives, Robin watched as his adventurous and independent wife slowly seemed to disappear. The struggles he and their adult children faced were painful and real. They experienced both frustration and great support as they navigated the health and social care systems. Yet Shoko’s love was constant and Robin found himself invited into a deeply spiritual journey with his wife. This honest and hope-filled account is a must-read for caregivers, families and friends of those affected, with its practical insights, and advice on further resources. But it is also for all of us. It shows how we can respond to this mysterious disease, not with fear and incomprehension but with love and creative friendship.