Walter : A True Story

Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Subject: Walter : A True story

Alzheimer's . . . His name is Walter . . . Slouched over in his chair, he seemed to be sleeping, like many others in the room. The Day Room. I touched his shoulder to greet him hello. No reaction. Then I grasped his shoulder, "Hello Walter! It's Annie." I was surprised he still feels so sturdy. I started to work his shoulder, moving down the bicep. Still pretty meaty. I moved my hand around to his back, stroking between his shoulder blades, very gently, allowing the tips of my fingers to touch into the tender spots.

Joan, Walter's wife, had been speaking with one of the nurses. "It's time to go," she commanded. She was concerned for me. Didn't want me to be late for my afternoon appointment. "Oh no," I replied, "he seems to be responding." I could feel him moving. Pressing against the hand that was caressing his back. An unfolding. Walter was pushing against me. My hand. Ever so gently. Not before long, both Joan and the nurse were both so taken aback. Greatly surprised.

With eyes still closed, Walter was sitting upright in his high back chair !!

He has been slumped over for years now! Then, I heard the women talking about how Walter doesn't open his eyes much anymore. Almost immediately, his eyes POPPED open. As if to prove them wrong. It would be like Walter to shame them. He looked directly at me. His eyes were crystal clear. Blue. Does he know who I am? Does he remember me? Would he be embarrassed that I was touching him so tenderly. So affectionately. Walter's face started contorting, working his jaws, his lips, as if he were cleaning the food caught in his teeth, his gums. Rolling his head to and fro, obviously requiring much effort. Efforting to work forgotten muscles. "Remember how he used to smile," one of the women said so endearingly. Then, he raised his head, still looking intently, right at me, he smiled !!! However brief, it was a smile, we all agreed.

My hand was still upon his back, the tips of my fingers still working the contours. I told him that we came today to bring some warm clothes, the seasons are changing and we're taking his laundry home so Joan can wash everything. I told him that Joan broke her foot, that I had an appointment at the library, Joan will return tomorrow for a visit.

Walter's eyes were completely fixed on me as I left the room.