An unstintingly honest and surprisingly humorous memoir that charts a
couple's parallel diagnoses of Parkinson's and Lewy body dementia.
In 2011, Leslie Davidson and her husband Lincoln Ford were enjoying
retired life to the fullest as ardent outdoor enthusiasts, energetic
travellers, and soon-to-be grandparents. But when Lincoln's confusion
became a concern and Leslie began to experience a hesitant leg and
uncontrollable tremors in one arm, a devastating double diagnosis
completely changed their life.
In this personal and unstintingly honest memoir, Leslie recounts the
years that follow the diagnoses--her Parkinson's and Lincoln's Lewy body
dementia--charting physical changes, mastering medications (and
sometimes flubbing it), the logistical puzzles of caregiving, and the
steady support of their close-knit community in the small town of Grand
Forks in south central British Columbia.
She describes her struggle to maintain perspective while questioning
what having perspective even means, and the work of being an advocate
while needing an advocate. And she explains how, amid all the challenges
and tears, shared laughter remained all-important to their survival,
especially in times when Lincoln saw her as an imposter. She shares
powerful lessons in love, courage, and grace from the man who had always
led the way and who, despite the ravages of his illness, in many ways,
still did.
At once poignant and unflinchingly frank Dancing in Small Spaces is
the story of a long and adventurous marriage, of deep gratitude, and,
ultimately, of writing one's way toward understanding and acceptance.
