Overview

Helen Winter LaCaze was a bright, effervescent and independent woman, recently retired from a corporate career, living life to the fullest. Who would ever expect to worry about her? Then, it began. Something was different, strange and unfamiliar in her gradual, noticeable odd behavior and withdrawal from family and friends. Becoming puzzled, then deeply concerned about the changes in her mother; Christine Fournier began the process of uncovering the mystery. Her mother's diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease took her and her mother on a journey that would change them forever. The author hopes that this account of her family's experience with Alzheimer's Disease will help others learn and cope with the ""living loss"" of their loved ones.

Full Product Details

9781953754066

Table of Contents

Reviews

I found The Unexpected to be very informative and supportive. The author's compassionate, loving and humorous writing of her journey provides an understanding of Alzheimer's Disease. Brilliantly written. -Evelyn Voss, New Brighton, MN No one is ever prepared to accept the mortality of their mother; however, Alzheimer's disease adds additional layers to an already profound emotional journey. I commend Christine for bringing light to this all-too-common diagnosis, helping to reduce stigma, and reminding us that humor and grace can coexist even in the most difficult moments. -Joan Olson, Minneapolis, Minnesota I finished Christine Fournier's book. I read it all in just two sittings. From first to last pages, my face was wet with tears. I've spent lots of time in nursing homes, and I could visualize it all so clearly. It's an amazing book for so many reasons. Thanks to the author for writing it. Now, I need to go and splash cold water on my face. -Kim Carlander, Eden Prairie, Minnesota An intimate portrait of a daughter's painstaking love and care for a mother ravaged by the tragedy of Alzheimer's Disease. An elegy to hope and enduring love. -Robert Strusinski, Retired, St. Thomas University, St. Paul, Minnesota A book that truly describes three generations of extraordinary women. This story will help many people understand the different stages of Alzheimer's Disease and prepare for the unknown. -Karen Zeh, Boca Raton, Florida The Unexpected is a must-read, for Alzheimer's Disease can strike any family at any time. Christine Fournier's story shows how someone so vital and interesting loses her ability to connect to those who love her most. -Eric Loeffler, Mt. Pleasant, S.C. This book may offer insight to all who find themselves on this path. This loving memoir reflects the way the author handled her journey through caring, love and a sense of humor. -Jan Crownover, Bloomington, Minnesota The ability to find joy and humor during this devastating illness is remarkable. The author did just that. An unforgettable journey of acceptance, compassion, and unconditional love. Extraordinary! -Joan Lesiege, South Hadley Falls, Massachusetts This book is a thoroughly engrossing account of the devastating effects of Alzheimer's Disease on the victim and family. The author writes with wit, understanding and compassion. I came away with a better understanding of the disease and a greater respect for caregivers. -Linda Lesperance, Port St. Lucie, Florida I knew Helen LaCaze personally. She was a vital, smart, funny gal with so much to give everyone. The disease of Alzheimer's eradicated the woman I knew. The book vividly describes this evolution. -John Command, Minneapolis, Minnesota Christine Fournier's The Unexpected, captures the essence of experiencing the effects of Alzheimer's on a loved one and the family. Through the author's eyes you will see the true gifts to take from the experience. -Peg Lasota, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Author Information

Christine Fournier is a 55-year veteran of show business. Formerly a dancer on Broadway, national tours and international performances, she has performed on regional and community stages, film, TV, and radio voice-overs. As a director-choreographer she's created staging for theater, industrial and fashion shows and was the first choreographer of Chanhassen Dinner Theater. Ms. Fournier retired from Lundstrum Performing Arts in November of 2024, where she coached actors and directed the Broadway Arts Conservatory for twenty years, as well as presented lecture/workshops regarding the work of her mentor, the late director/choreographer, Bob Fosse. In addition to this memoir, Christine has authored Broadway Gypsy Lives, six novels based on her career, and the life of a musical theatre performer, inspired by the love and support of her late husband, Paul Fournier.

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