My grandmother passed away two years ago in the same nursing home. Since that time I found it difficult to return. She was a resident of a local nursing home for several months. During that time I had only taken my camera there on one occasion. I told myself “I didn’t want to remember her that way.” Seeing my father-in-law and making the photographs for a book for my wife I have been taught a valuable lesson. That lesson is to respect what what I have now and to live life to its fullest. For me living life to it’s fullest is the ability to give back in some way. Each year I give away photography packages to those family’s who might otherwise not be able to afford a family portrait. Make-A-Wish is one opf my favorite charities with which to work. I truly enjoy the smile on the faces of the kids when they become the focus of such positive attention.

My father-in-law suffers from Alzheimer’s. He does not recognize me when I visit. There have been occasions when, after looking away from I returned see his eyes locked on my face. I’m sure he’s trying to identify who I am. I’m not sure he recognizes anyone, at least consistently. His mind, once sharp, is now dulled by the disease.

Nancy is the hair and makeup artist in the family. She often provides that assistance at photo shoots. Nancy also makes sure her father is shaved and has a haircut. He is lucky to have his wife and children provide adjunct care.