Recently, something fantastic occurred. Bill, my beautiful spouse of 12 years, informed me he wanted to marry me. As most of you are aware, Bill has been suffering from dementia for the last nine years. Bill has been oblivious to our connection for almost a year and has forgotten my name.

So when Bill told me he’really REALLY loved me and wanted to be with me forever,’ I was moved. As I accepted his ‘proposal,’ I was showered with kisses and embraces. It was just amazing!

Another memory to cherish. What I didn’t expect was for him to recall the following day. He was curious as to when we were getting married. It was Thursday, and because I was having my “close pals” around on Saturday, I offered that day. Andrea, my daughter, suggested that I buy a dress. Really?

“Of course,” she said. “How could it not be a wedding?” So I went out and bought a dress that afternoon, intending to return it unused. But Bill was still remembering on Friday, so we got a beautiful cake from Mark together.

Lynne, my cousin, brought me flowers for my hair, and Eva organised and prepared a special part for Bill in the renewal of vows, giving him the idea that we were marrying. The next day, I made a bouquet for myself using Lynne’s amazing hand-made bunting from the day before, Eva’s beautiful flower arrangement, and Susan’s beautiful flowers for my bouquet.

With gorgeous weather all day and my wonderful family by my side, Bill and I remarried. It had been the most incredible day. We are very lucky to have family and close friends who love us both and will go out of their way to make sure Bill and I have a great life together.

I never imagined we would reaffirm our vows, but we did. And it was fantastic. Bill was fantastic. What’s more astonishing is that Bill still believes he’s just married his new fiancée, which makes him extremely pleased.

If you’ve made it this far, thank you! Please remember that even if someone has severe dementia and all of the problems that entails, they may still surprise you in the most unexpected ways. Bill has once again made me extremely delighted.