Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver in Ottawa, shared her heartfelt experience regarding a folk art calendar that has become a cherished tradition in her family for almost three decades. The calendar was originally given to her mother as a gift, and its significance has endured over the years.
During her childhood in Toronto, the holiday season was always a joyous time for Nicole’s family. The art calendar became a special symbol of Christmas for her mother, who took pleasure in admiring the colorful paintings, especially the festive snow-filled scenes in December.
In 2015, Nicole’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 68. Despite the challenges posed by the illness, her mother remained optimistic and cheerful, even as the disease progressed over the years. Eventually, her parents relocated to a retirement home in Ottawa, and her mother later moved to the memory care floor due to her condition.
Despite her mother’s declining health, Nicole continued the tradition of gifting her the folk art calendar each year. Even though her mother could no longer engage with the calendar as before, Nicole found solace in sharing the pictures with her, reminiscing about past moments and expressing love through this annual ritual.
As her mother’s condition deteriorated and communication became limited, Nicole found purpose and comfort in continuing the tradition. The calendar served as a means to connect with her mother, preserve family traditions, and convey love and care through a tangible symbol.
In the face of the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s, the annual calendar gift became a source of hope, comfort, and a way for Nicole to express her spiritual beliefs. Despite the changes in their relationship, this tradition remained a constant reminder of love and connection, offering a sense of home and familiarity to her mother.
Looking ahead to the future, Nicole anticipates changing the page to the next year, embracing the continuity of the tradition and the enduring bond it represents with her mother.