Kelley Irwin

One day in June 2023, Dad went fishing with a group of friends. Not all the surprises of dementia are sad.

We spent a lot of time in and on lakes over the years. The surprise was I don’t remember my dad fishing. He was always happy to be by the water and my parents had the great fortune to live on a beautiful lake two times in their lives.

On some days Dad is open to anything. On other days, he is quite certain he is not going to participate.

June 30, the stars aligned and Dad was all in. A summer day, but not too hot. A group of friends, some with dementia and some to ensure safety. A lake, a pier, and some fishing rods. Dad had joy and happiness. He had sunshine and camaraderie. And he had a big story to tell when I saw him later that day.

Dementia journeys are not linear. Some days are extremely difficult in ways I could never have imagined. This day was a gem to be savoured. On tough days last week, I told him the story of his fishing trip. Whether he remembers or just enjoys my telling of the story, it brings a smile to his face and a twinkle to his eye.

(Photo of Dad on his fishing trip.)