We’re All Going To Die

The title isn’t meant to be shocking but rather a statement of fact. We pass the anniversary of our death every year and don’t know it. As uncomfortable as it is for most of us, let’s take a moment to think about our ending. As the Bob Dylan song says, “the best we can hope…

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Saying Goodbye

It’s still hard to believe that our 25th year of serving people in eldercare and providing training to increase empathy for people with dementia is over.  These 25 years have taught us so much and we continue to learn more every day.    We learn from our dreamers that honoring them by learning all we can…

Second Wind Dreams Month

25 years in the making.  Most times we think of our older counterparts as people who have made their mark, so we consciously or subconsciously view them differently.  It’s a fact that most people don’t believe that older adults, especially those in a healthcare setting have hopes and dreams.  This is the fundamental reason that…

I Don’t Deserve This

The dining room at the nursing home is abuzz with excitement.  Everyone knows something special is about to happen, but no one knows exactly what it is.  Music is playing as everyone gathers and chatter fills the air.  Soon someone picks up the microphone and asks if Ms. Mabel Jones is in the house.  Everyone…

Do people with dementia have hopes and dreams?

Over the past 25 years since the founding of Second Wind Dreams I have learned more than any classroom of dignified, highly educated teachers could ever convey.  As I reflect on the past years, I think the lessons taught by our elders with dementia are some of the most impactful.    Most people think we only…

An Invitation That Can Change Your Life

OK, so the title might be a bit of an overreach, but we are having a party to celebrate our 25th anniversary and we want you to be there.  In fact, it won’t be the same without you.  On May 11th, no matter where you are, we ask you to sign up and join us. …

Protecting Liza Minelli

I love lady Gaga; I really do and I love how wonderful she is with our legends with dementia.  However, I am having trouble with her and Liza at the Oscars.  The praise has been enormous for Lady Gaga.  How amazing she was with Ms. Minelli.  I wonder if we got inside Liza’s head and…

The Recovering Caregiver

Hello, my name is P.K. Beville and I’m a recovering caregiver.  I don’t state this tongue in cheek.  I’m serious.  I write this because caregiving can be like an addiction.  All you think about is the person you love and care for.  Your first thought in the morning is about your loved one and hurrying…

What’s My Favorite Dream?

It’s hard to believe that on January 15th it will be 25 years of answering that question.  Twenty-five years of care and feeding has gone into taking a concept of fulfilling dreams for our elders along with dedication to dementia training and turning it into an international phenomenon.  Most nonprofits don’t last more than a few years and…

Being Thankful For Those With Dementia

By giving people with dementia an unvarnished look and removing our own fears and worry; there is beauty.    Those suffering from dementia have exceptional fortitude as they try to grasp understanding the world around them and staying in the game of life.  They deserve credit for that.  There is longing for connection at any level. It’s beautiful to watch them find ways…