Fred has Alzheimer's disease but in the moment, his mind is always aware and alert and we often discuss what we see around us, from the beauty of the homes to the magnificence of the trees and flowers.
Today was not a day to walk for exercise for me and I did what I often do during non-exercise days, I took a 12 minute walk around the block to loosen my lower back.
Shortly after I walked past Fred's home, I heard voices off in the distance but ignored my intuition to go back, and finished the walk.
Later because of intuition, I called Fred's wife Ellen and it turned out Fred had seen me walk by and came rushing out to walk with me. He and the woman across the street kept calling my name but with no response.
That woman and Ellen then wouldn't allow Fred to chase after me for fear he would get lost.
When I heard this I told Ellen how sorry I was and offered to take Fred for a walk. She said she and Fred would be leaving soon, and in so many words told me not to feel guilty, that I do plenty for Fred.
After we hung up, I called right back and again offered to take Fred for a walk, even a brief one so it wouldn't interfere with her plans. She thanked me repeatedly and assured me Fred would be fine.
I'm sorry this happened and regret that I ignored my intuition. Fred deserved better, even if this instance will slip away from his memory.
Dick
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