In I Didn’t See It Coming, you share with readers both the highs and lows of your journey dealing with your husband’s diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia and the hope you found on the other side. Why was this an important book for you to write?

The reason was two-fold: It was written to help others find the answers to dealing with Lewy body dementia in one place, and at the same time, it was cathartic for me to share my life as a caregiver beginning at the age of 10.

I appreciate the candid nature with which you tell your story. What was the most difficult thing for you to write about?

When I was going through the caregiving experience for my beloved husband Nicky Zann, I would keep a monthly log for the doctors so that everyone understood how this disease was progressing and what it was doing to our lives. When the journey ended, I never thought that I would ever go back to those notes. In transcribing them for the book and further adding a commentary on the emotional changes in a relationship each month, I found myself typing with tears streaming down my face as I relived the journey.

What is one misconception you feel many people may have regarding caring for loved ones with dementia?

The biggest misconception in my opinion is that your loved one is “out of it” and doesn’t understand what’s happening. I contend that, while not always able to respond, your loved one does understand and appreciates the loving touch, the kind tone or voice, and the words ‘I love you.’

What is one thing you hope readers take away from your experiences?

You are NOT ALONE on your journey; please keep hope and embrace resilience!

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