Audios

“Interview about Alzheimer’s with Host Paul Douglas (WCCO-AM 830)”
by Cheryl Crofoot Knapp

WCCO 830-AM: The Paul and Jordana Show
20 November 2017

Featuring Cheryl Crofoot Knapp. A discussion of her book, UNDEFEATED INNOCENCE, and what she learned by caregiving for both of her parents who died of Alzheimer’s. Includes discussion of collateral beauty and hope, where is God in Alzheimer’s, why so much Alzheimer’s, and early diagnostic tools under development.

 

[Click twice if audio doesn’t begin right away]

“Care Partnering: Knowing the Impact of Losing Memories–One Decade at a Time”
by Cheryl Crofoot Knapp, with Chuck Knapp

Interview with Hartley Pleshaw, WCAP-AM 980, Boston, Massachusetts
April 15, 2017

 

My mom told me a secret many years ago that gave me a new level of understanding and compassion towards her. I didn’t think I would ever tell a soul and thought I would take her dirty secret to both our graves.

But there came a turning point in her boxing match with Alzheimer’s when it became time for me to tell others. I chose to tell my sister, who never knew, and I had to tell a doctor and several nurses. Mom’s quality of care depended on me talking about her personal tragedy.

I was shocked when Mom told me. I was shocked by the violation, and I was shocked that she chose me to tell. And I sobbed as I revealed it to others during her last week of life. However, I was blessed to be the one to show her such extreme compassion when Alzheimer’s brought her back to the decade of her defilement.

Mom was my best friend, and I was probably hers. Because she had told me her darkest secret, I understood that caregiving is more than giving–it was truly being a partner with her in her care.

The secret is revealed in my book, UNDEFEATED INNOCENCE, and also during the interview in this post. Click to listen.