Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver based in Ottawa, reflects on the enduring tradition of a folk art calendar in her family, spanning nearly three decades. The calendar, a cherished gift exchanged annually during Christmas, holds sentimental value, evoking fond memories of joyous holiday celebrations in Toronto with her parents and brother.

In 2015, at the age of 68, Robichaud’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, a condition she had witnessed while caring for her own father. Despite the challenges posed by the disease’s progression, Robichaud’s mother endeavored to remain positive and cheerful, even as her cognitive abilities declined over the years.

Following her father’s passing, Robichaud’s mother transitioned to a retirement home in Ottawa and later to a memory care unit as her condition worsened. Despite her diminishing cognitive function and mobility, the folk art calendar remained a constant presence, symbolizing continuity amid the changes.

As the disease advanced, Robichaud’s mother’s ability to engage with the calendar diminished, eventually reaching a point where she could no longer appreciate the colorful images. Despite the heartbreaking realities of witnessing her mother’s decline, Robichaud continued the tradition of ordering the calendar each year, finding solace in the routine.

In moments of visiting her mother, now largely unresponsive and immobile, Robichaud found purpose in sharing the calendar’s imagery, reminiscing about past joys and connecting with her mother through familiar traditions. Although her mother’s responses dwindled, the act of presenting the calendar held profound significance, offering a semblance of continuity in their relationship.

The annual ritual of gifting the calendar transcended its material form, becoming a means for Robichaud to express her enduring love and maintain a spiritual connection with her mother. In the face of the relentless progression of Alzheimer’s, the calendar symbolized resilience, comfort, and hope, providing a source of solace amid the challenges of the disease. Looking ahead to the upcoming year, Robichaud anticipates the symbolic act of turning the calendar page with a sense of optimism and continued devotion to this enduring tradition.