She’s ninety-two years old and in long term care after a fall left her with a broken hip. My visit with her on Tuesday was a delight, as she reminisced about various people in her life (many times over). Dementia is often a side effect of longevity, and repetition of conversation is one of the tell-tale signs of this disease.

My friend misses her euchre games with her old friends, misses her Sundays at church, misses her home which she is sure she will return to when her hip heals.

Nevertheless, this dear lady loves her life and told me, “I know my children appreciate me and I love that.”

When it was time for me to leave, she took my hand and smiled, “You know, Pat, I’m glad I’m still alive,” she said.

How happy I was to hear those words. I look forward to my next visit with this plucky ninety-two year old.