Superhero
I wrote this story in May of 2021, and at that time, I thought my dad was a superhero; now, after a quadruple bypass, I KNOW my dad is a superhero. Even superheroes need time to rest and heal.
What is your definition of a hero? When you think of a hero, do you think of Superman? A spaceman with the power to save the world and the ability to reverse the rotation of the Earth to return everything to normal.
My hero doesn’t come from outer space or wear a cape; my hero is more significant than any hero you could imagine. He listened to me complain about the scrapes on my knees and took time to hear my concerns about insignificant things. He also answered deep questions like, “If the world is so big, why are there only two fuzzy television channels?” This hero is kind and expects respect. He is my dad.
Not only is my father kind and deserves respect, but he is also brave. When my dad was diagnosed with vascular dementia, it shook my world. I will never be ready for this chapter of our lives. And here is why he is the bravest hero I know: he’s aware of the changes the years will bring for him and is making the best of his life. He is not sulking in the future but living for today. To me, that bravery has no comparison. Not even Superman is that strong.
I’m going to be my dad’s sidekick. We are not going to allow this villain to win without a war. We are above this evil, and together, we will fight as long and bravely as we can until he is granted the ability to reverse the rotation of the Earth.
My hero is my dad.
I am proud of you and love you dearly.
JUST THE BEGINNING.
Vascular dementia is a general term describing problems with reasoning, planning, judgment, memory, and other thought processes caused by brain damage from impaired blood flow to your brain. It is progressive and incurable, and the symptoms can be slowed with medication and cognitive support. Vascular dementia can often go unrecognized; experts recommend professional cognitive screening for everyone considered to be at high risk. High-risk factors include people who have had ministrokes, strokes or who have risk factors for heart or blood vessel disease. Depression commonly coexists with brain vascular disease and can contribute to cognitive impairment. Depression should be monitored as well.
Alzheimer’s Association has a helpline for people with or supporting someone with memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s. You can call 24/7 toll-free at 1–800–272–3900 for reliable information and support.
