My Dad was so strong; he’d carry me along
on his back when I was a child.
Then, over the years, his wit quelled my fears
and guided me through my teens wild.

When I moved away, in my mind he did stay
that same Dad I knew all the time
Now in his old age his minds in a rage
it slips and skips without rhyme.

In his eyes I saw fear as his memories disappeared
into the shadows of his mind.
To remember he’d try, I’d watch him and cry
with no way to help but be kind.

His life is confusion, mind-numbing delusions
his world is no longer serene.
Most cloths now confound, invisible people abound
what he says is not what he means.

He wants to do right, but try as he might
the connection just is not there.
Confusion for him, his family’s hopes dim,
what a hopeless, sad cross to bear.

Now wheelchair bound, losing weight by the pound,
he just sits there and stares.
To see him is hell, I just want to yell,
“Dear Lord, you know it’s not fair!”

His last step is death; when he takes his last breath,
I’ll stand by his side and smile.
He’ll be free again, no sadness or pain,
he’ll be with God in a while.

Yes, Dad’s essence is gone, as his body lives on,
my love for him I’ll not ban.
‘Cause still in my heart, he’s strong, proud, and smart,
But my eyes see an Alzheimer's man.

Sharon Burgess-Guidry
©2000