Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
FORMER WISCONSIN Governor Martin Schreiber gives a presentation and book signing for his new book "My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer's Caregiver" at the Mercer Community Center on Wednesday afternoon.
By ISABELLE KLEINSCHMIDT
news@yourdailyglobe
Mercer - Former Wisconsin Governor Martin J. Schreiber gave a presentation at the Mercer Community Center on Wednesday afternoon. Schreiber "is one of the nations leading crusaders for Alzheimer's caregivers," said Mercer Public Library Director Teresa Schmidt.
Recently, the former governor published a book along with co-author Cathy Breitenbucher called "My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer's Caregiver." The book is a candid account of the trials and tribulations of those living with Alzheimer's as well as those of their caregiver.
"Cathy and I wrote this book from the standpoint of a caregiver," said Schreiber. Just before publishing the book, he found a series of diaries written by his wife. The book contains several firsthand accounts written by Elaine that convey the feelings and experiences that she experienced while coping with the disease." Our library has two copies and we just can't keep it on the shelf," said Schmidt
In 2007, Schreiber's wife Elaine was diagnosed with the disease. He tells his poignant story with well timed moments of comedic relief. He is set to deliver over 100 presentations throughout the area during 2017. He also gave a presentation and book signing at the Aspirus Ironwood Hospital on Wednesday night.
"Being diagnosed with this disease is a terrible sentence," said Schreiber "We prayed together and we cried together." He discussed the multifaceted disease; how it affects family and friends, how the caregiver struggles with decisions such as living arrangements, when to visit, medications and advice how to react to the symptoms of the disease.
"If there is one thing worse than Alzheimer's its ignorance of the disease," said Schreiber "You have to understand that they are someone completely different. You no longer can anticipate or expect any of the same things that you once had."
Breitenbucher, who helped Schrieber to organize and write the book, has also written a book on former Olympic speed-skater Bonnie Blair. Their next upcoming event will be held on Thursday July 27 at 3 p.m. at the Forest County Courthouse in Crandon, Wis. The book is available at the Mercer library or can be purchased on the website: mytwoelaines.com.
