Heather & John’s Story

My name is John, and I want to share a bit about my wife, Heather.

Just five years ago, Heather was diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia, a form of dementia. Over time, communication became harder, and the life we once knew began to quietly change. 

For as long as I could, I cared for Heather at home. But there came a point when I knew I couldn’t do it on my own anymore. Moving her into long-term care was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. 

I felt like I was abandoning her… like I was letting her down. I was exhausted, and if I’m being honest, overwhelmed with sadness. 

But I also knew Heather needed more. More care, more support, and a circle of people around her who could give her what I no longer could. 

That’s when she came to Northwood. 

Since Heather moved there, I can’t say enough about the care and kindness she receives. Northwood isn’t about luxury. It’s about something far more important. 

Love lives there. 

I see it every time I visit. I see it in the way staff care for her and take the time to connect. Even though Heather can’t always express herself the way she once could, I know she feels it. I see it in her smiles. I know when Heather is happy. I see it in the little things. 

When I take her to music events, she taps her fingers along, like something inside her still remembers the rhythm. At the Remembrance Day ceremony, she wept quietly beside me. I knew she was thinking of her father. 

Those moments remind me that even when so much has changed, so much is still there. She is still Heather. 

By becoming a Northwood donor, you can help make moments like these possible. Here’s what I’ve seen since Heather arrived at Northwood.

Before her diagnosis, Heather was always creative. She found joy in art, colour, and expressing herself in ways that often said more than words could. The artwork featured here reflects that spirit and the woman she has always been. Even as her ability to communicate has changed, her love of beauty and expression remains. 

But moments like these, the music, the connection, the care, don’t happen on their own.

They require time, resources, and people who believe that even in the hardest stages of dementia, dignity and connection still matter. 

Spring is often when families reach a turning point. After long winter months of caregiving, many realize they need help. That’s when places like Northwood become so important, not just for residents, but for families like mine.

Today, I’m asking you to make a gift to support programs at Northwood. 

Your generosity helps create moments like the ones I now share with Heather. Moments of music, connection, and comfort that still shine through, even in the hardest stages of this disease. 

Please consider a gift of $25, $50, or $100 today to help ensure more residents experience these moments of care, dignity, and connection. If you prefer, you can also choose to give monthly to provide ongoing support. 

Your donation will help ensure that people like Heather continue to be surrounded by love. And it will help families like mine feel a little less alone. 

Thank you for taking the time to read our story, and for caring.

Sincerely, 

John

P.S. When I see Heather smile, I know she feels the care around her. A gift today will help ensure more families experience moments like this. Please send your donation today.

Become a Northwood Donor

Help make moments of music, connection, and comfort.

For more information or to discuss a special gift, please contact:
Northwood Foundation
📞 902-454-3069
📧 info@northwoodfoundation.ca