Dementia is a long goodbye

“Stained Glass Tainted by Dementia” by Theodore McDowell is a poetry collection that explores emotions and experiences related to dementia. The first half of the book is a memoir-in-verse weaving themes of dementia, caregiving, love, suffering, forgiveness, hope, and spiritual endurance through the author’s relationship with his dying mother. The memoir also explores Mr. McDowell’s movement from grief to healing after his mother’s death. The second half of the book expands the perspective to include the experiences of individuals with dementia, their spouses, family members, and caregivers. The poems look unflinchingly at the suffering, but the collection also reveals the beauty, faith, hope, and humanity embedded in the experience. Ultimately, these poems delve into the themes of forgiveness, grieving, and healing for those left behind after loss. This collection is a must-read for anyone who has been affected by dementia.

Childhood and adult traumas have shaped Theodore McDowell’s life. Mr. McDowell has published seven poetry books that bear witness to the suffering caused by these traumas and explore the grieving and healing process. Mr. McDowell is a retired attorney with five adult children living in Seattle and Texas, as well as seven grandchildren.