Close to Me, but Far Away

the long version

"Burton Wheeler started writing this book as a form of self-therapy when he found himself thrust into the role of caretaker to his wife - a role for which he felt unprepared. He wrote in memory of the very special woman his wife had been - a wonderful mother, charming and gracious, as well as a deeply respected psychotherapist. She was also his best friend, and he loved her. So, to some degree, this story is a love story - a story about two people who have shared life's ups and downs for over 50 years. It's also about commitment." "In Close to Me, but Far Away, Burt Wheeler provides insight into what a caregiver's day is like, as he shares his most intimate thoughts with us. The book provides a window into the author's personal life as he seeks to confront his own ineptitude and the occasional despair he feels as he deals daily with Alzheimer's. He also touches on the question of what keeps him going through times of exhaustion and frustration. Part of his answer lies in holding tenaciously to memories, and part lies in what he believes is a human's extraordinary capacity to continue plodding along simply because he must. Wheeler also believes in rejoicing in the beauty that can be experienced, and he believes in humor, humor achieved only by distancing ourselves from the events that so deeply engage us. And, of course, there is also the indefinable nature of love." "Alzheimer's is a terrifying and horrible disease, as much for loved ones as for the patient. Those who are caregivers or friends of Alzheimer's patients or caregivers will empathize with and perhaps find comfort in Burton Wheeler's story. Because Alzheimer's is a disease that could affect anyone, Close to Me, but Far Away is a story from which we can all learn."--Jacket.