I don’t know Judy Lauer, but it would appear she wrote this poem about Kenny Dale Lauer, whom she clearly loves. Maybe Kenny is/was her husband, spouse, father, brother, son, or cousin; I don’t know. I tried to find her, but I couldn’t. Anyway, awhile ago she submitted this poem somewhere online and someone copied it, and… you know what happens after that.
I love the reality, sadness, grief, joy, life and hope of this poem that Judy Lauer wrote at some unknown time before today. It has the same kind of humanity I tried to capture in my own piece entitled “let me shine.”
Here’s to you kindred spirits Judy Lauer and Kenny Dale Lauer, wherever you are.
I’m still a person
by Judy Lauer
I have Alzheimer’s, but just the same,
Kenny Dale Lauer is still my name
I may not remember who you are,
But I know you’re special, at least so far.
I cannot Speak, no words come out.
But if I could I think I’d Shout.
Sometimes I’m Sad, and shed a tear,
Sometimes its, scary and lots of fear,
Sometimes I smile when you stop by,
Even if it’s just to say hi.
I worked at Fairbanks, this I know
But, don’t you all? I do think so.
It is hard to swallow when I try to eat.
But good ‘ole ice cream is still a treat.
I drool a lot and make a mess
It’s part of this crazy disease I guess.
I wear pull ups, and I hate clothes,
and what I’m thinking, no one knows.
All the nurses and helpers too,
Know exactly what to do,
I love my Teddy and Teddy loves me,
I am still a person, and God Bless Me.
by Judy Lauer
Note: If you know the whereabouts of Judy Lauer, please ask her to contact me. Thanks.
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My Alzheimer's Story 