Ghostwriter
I am concerned. My husband did not do well many years ago when he was drafted. He’s lived a hard life and suffered much. He’s been a good place for at least six years even with his illness.
His army buddies are meeting up. He has not seen them in at last 35 years and maybe more. He is certainly not the same person they knew and I am not sure what to expect. They reached out to him and asked if he would come and meet them just for one evening as they are going to be within 300 miles from us, would we come?
After they talked an hour or so he said “You will have to talk to my wife. I don’t drive anymore because I might forget how. Here’s her phone number.”
I have never met any of these men. I explained with as little detail as possible that I would be happy to bring him and there were a few things they needed to know before they decide if this is what they want. He doesn’t drink anymore because that complicates the PTSD and he goes right back to the war. He will probably remember them because his long term memory is better than he short term memory, but he may not. I will remain close by because I am his anchor. I don’t have to sit at the table and participate, but I have to be where he can see me if he gets confused or panics.
I sent it out in a private message to each of them as well as the short conversation on the phone.
They asked if it would hurt him or help him. I said I told them I have no idea, and I know he wants to see see you all. I am willing to make it happen if you understand that I may have to take him somewhere if things get too confusing or out of hand. I know I don’t really belong there, and he can’t do this alone.
They were all quick to respond. In a nutshell, most of them simply said, “We’ll see you on the 16th.”
It could be very interesting.
I am sorry you have to be in this position. First, because there is so much pain to be relived possibly.
The risk-reward equation doesn’t cover this.
My father-in-law was in the Navy during WWII. At the end of his life that disease took a piece of him away from us. I think it impacted my wife more than she will ever be able to share.
Do what is best for both of you.
We will go and we will survive. I hope for the best and prepare for the worst. Thanks for your wise words.
I am happy to help. we lost both my in-laws to that disease and it also took my father. It takes more from those around than people realize.
That sounds like some adventure. I agree with you it could be good and it could be bad. I am hoping it turns out to be the best scenario where he suddenly remembers everyone and has such a good time reminiscing that he is the happiest which he has not been in a long time. Hope it all works out.
I am hopeful as well. Whatever happens we’ll make it through it.