Because one in nine older Americans has Alzheimer’s disease, many spouses are thrust into roles they never anticipated. Rather than gritting her teeth and saying, “I have to do this,” Candy Abbott, in her new book I’ve Never Loved Him More: A Husband’s Alzheimers, A Wife’s Devotion, demonstrates what caregiving looks like from a perspective of “I get to do this.” I’ve Never Loved Him More is a chronological journey into the unknown and sometimes scary, dark world of Alzheimer’s disease. Yet, this book is anything but dark and scary. It is delightful, funny and heartwarming as the author tells the unvarnished, sometimes raw truth with the sincere motive of helping others in a similar situation.
Nancy Rue, best-selling fiction author says, “Like the true storyteller she is, Candy spins the funny scenes in a way that brings on the belly laughter, sometimes in the midst of tears. It’s never forced. It’s never inappropriate. It’s just true wit born out of a cheerful spirit that cannot be daunted by even this long, trying ordeal.” With her use of Scripture, Candy doesn’t ask the reader to simply read the passages and have faith. Instead, she explains in a practical, concrete way how those verses work in a life being put through the refining fire. Writing truth from a place of authenticity, she speaks in simple terms to the person who is emotionally writhing, offering the benefit of her hard-won wisdom and experience without ever being condescending. She owns her mistakes as well as triumphs.”
According to Cindy Broschart, Alzheimer’s advocate, “Candy’s journey offers a vision of hope—the light in the tunnel, not at the end of the tunnel.” I’ve Never Loved Him More will serve as a companion to a caregiver, from diagnosis through the mild phase of the disease. It is also recommended for those who plan to marry. The author’s story demonstrates what it means to live out those “in sickness or in health” vows. Masterfully and sincerely written, this work of the heart will leave an indelible mark on each reader.
Pastor Carol Svecz says, “I truly believe this book has the power to become a new standard reference for the Alzheimer’s community.”
Author Bio: Candy Abbott
