Nicole Robichaud, a lawyer and caregiver from Ottawa, recalls the tradition of a folk art calendar that has been a constant in her family for nearly three decades. The calendar, a cherished gift, has been a part of their Christmas celebrations since she can remember.
Growing up in Toronto, the holidays were always a joyous time for Nicole’s family. The art calendar was a particular favorite of her mother, who would admire each colorful painting, especially enjoying the festive scenes in December.
In 2015, Nicole’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 68, having previously supported her own father through the same illness. Despite the challenges of memory loss and cognitive decline, she maintained a positive attitude and tried to stay cheerful.
Over the years, as the disease progressed, Nicole’s parents relocated to a retirement home in Ottawa. Following her father’s passing, her mother moved to the memory care floor and later into a smaller suite in 2021, where she resided in a wheelchair.
Despite her mother’s advancing condition, Nicole continued the tradition of ordering the folk art calendar each year. The calendar, a constant companion, held sentimental value even though her mother could no longer engage with it as she once did.
As her mother’s health declined, Nicole found solace in turning the calendar’s pages during her visits, reminiscing about the cherished memories associated with the artwork. Though her mother could no longer actively participate in these interactions, the ritual of sharing the calendar maintained a sense of connection and continuity in their relationship.
The act of gifting the calendar annually became a symbol of love and a way for Nicole to express her spiritual beliefs in the face of a challenging disease. Despite the limitations imposed by Alzheimer’s, the calendar represented a source of comfort, purpose, and hope in their shared journey. Nicole looks forward to continuing the tradition in the upcoming year, embracing the sense of familiarity and connection it brings.