When Camels Slide Down Doors Do You Tell the Neighbors?: A Seven-Year Journey Through the Classroom of Dementia (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781512710199)

Journey with a Boomer couple accepting the mission of caring for one parent with dementia, only to end up with two parents with dementia, mixed with a healthy blend of OCD, paranoia, and Parkinson's. The intense darkness of such a dynamic at times also makes for a releasing humor. Poignant stories tell the tales, while the focus remains on how, when the Teacher designs the syllabus, the classroom experience will reach the heart. Over 30 humbling lessons (most in hindsight) about mission, mercy, faith, fatigue, keys and cars, time, toothpaste, amazement, awe, earthsuits, and more are set into an eternal perspective. What was the most humbling lesson of all? Come along with Rick and Martha and discover the most important one for yourself.

Aging certainly has its problems. We lose lots of things like teeth, sight, hearing, knees, hips, and sleep to name a few. However, the costliest loss of all is our memory. Caregivers and family members must take the time to read 'When Camels Slide Down Doors...' It will come to be your manual, your friend, your source of inspiration and encouragement. Your relationship with God and each family member will be enriched.

DR. HANS E. JOSEPHSEN, DMin, ThD, PhD. Christian Counselor

The Traders' seven-year journey through the many stages of caring for their elderly parents and their passage through dementia is a lesson in life, love, and faith. The narrative of Ann and Winston's story rivals the tellings of Philip Roth. When you infuse such a heartfelt tale with scriptural passages and the calling to ministry that Rick and Martha embody, you are presented with a rare and unique book that will change the way you view the challenges life presents. I heartily endorse 'When Camels Slide Down Doors...'

MICHAEL J READINGER, President & CEO,

The Council for Health & Human Service Ministries, United Church of Christ

True to life, 'When Camels Slide Down Doors...' recounts the creative ways the authors overcame barriers without losing heart, their senses of humor, and most of all their faith in God. This excellent story will prepare readers for the progression through the disease process, as well as the spiritual growth that it fosters in those who care for these loved ones.

As a professional who trains chaplains, therapists, and caregivers, I enjoyed reading 'Camels...' It is a delightful, at times emotional, personal read which will leave you laughing, sometimes on the edge of tears, and always ready to turn the page.
DR. DOUG DICKENS, Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling, Gardner-Webb University/School of Divinity