Conversations With Juana
Stephen Mosher
One of the conversations I documented when Mama’s dementia became apparent:
Mama: (Entering the house from dinner out, speaking to the dog) What's for dessert, Oreo?
Stephanie: You just had cake.
Mama: WHAT?!
Stephanie: We had cake at Daddy's birthday.
Mama: We did?
Me: Yes, my darling.
Mama: I didn't get a slice.
Me: You did, my love. A very healthy slice and you loved it.
Mama: I DID?!
Me: Yes sweetheart. Tony brought it. It was white cake with strawberries and lovely icing and shaves of white chocolate.
Mama: And I had a piece?
Me: Yes, my beauty. You really enjoyed it.
Mama: I don't remember eating cake.
Me: I have a photo.
Mama: It wasn't half an hour ago.
Me: No my angel.
Mama: I have to call my doctor.
Me: Why is that, dolly?
Mama: Because that SUCKS.
Me: What's that, my sweet girl?
Mama: I ate cake and I don't even get to remember it!