Don’t Walk Away: A Care Partner’s Journey

By Counselor Books on Sep 8, 2024, 18:52 • ( 0 )

Counselor Books is honored to publish Don’t Walk Away: A Care Partner’s Journey by Marilyn Raichle. Marilyn began her career in the theatre, founding the Seattle International Children’s Festival and receiving a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, but her career changed when she became the family caregiver for her parents, both of whom were developing dementia. In 2010, inspired by her mother’s newfound artistic ability, Marilyn founded The Art of Alzheimer’s, celebrating the creativity of people living with dementia and the power of the creative arts to enrich and empower their lives. In 2019 she became the Executive Director of Maude’s Awards for Innovation in Alzheimer’s Care, which recognizes innovative programs and practices of care that are enhancing the lives of people living with dementia and their care partners

Marilyn’s mother, Jean McFee Raichle, like many people in Marilyn’s family, lived with Alzheimer’s in her 80’s. However, Jean began to express herself through art, and her vibrant and intriguing paintings combine with Marilyn’s writing to tell a story of creativity and community, one that has already touched and inspired thousands of families facing similar challenges. Indeed, a TV news report about Jean and Marilyn’s life together won an Emmy Award in 2013, illustrated by Jean’s fascinating artwork. The insights gained from Marilyn and Jean’s journey together are part of a revolution in how those with dementia are supported and nurtured during this phase of life.

Don’t Walk Away is beautifully designed by Doug Clouse of The Graphics Office, and it skillfully weaves stories and insights from the author with rich colors and shapes from her mother’s artwork. Each page inspires the reader to look at artistic creation in new ways and to find new avenues for embracing those with dementia.

Don’t Walk Away has received praise from across the community, including the following:

“An insightful guide for staying present, adapting, and learning in the face of dementia. A profound exploration of the nuanced beauty inherent in loving someone with Alzheimer’s.” — Bonnie Wattles, Hilarity for Charity

“Filled with joy, laughter and lessons learned, this is a perspective that offers a different and inspiring view of the Alzheimer’s experience.” — Carin Mack, Director of Memory Loss Programming, The Gathering Place, North Seattle

“Don’t Walk Away touches me deeply—it is simply so loving, full of gratitude and authenticity.” — Daniel C Potts, MD. FAAN

“A remarkable book—illustrating that dementia does not only destroy, but also spares.” — Tom Grabowski MD, Medical Director and Neurologist, Memory and Brain Wellness Center, University of Washington

“Don’t Walk Away brought a smile to my face the moment I opened my package and the joy hits me every time I walk by the book or pick it up.” — Lori La Bey, Founder of Alzheimer’s Speaks, Co-founder of Dementia Map and Co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L

“This marvelous book inspirationally provides a new perspective on the retained strengths of persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and how those can be utilized for their benefit and for the benefit of care
partners alike.” — Marcus E. Raichle, MD, Neurologist and neuroscientist at Washington University in St Louis and member of the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Medicine

“I love, love, love it!!” — Susan R. Law, Executive Director, I’m Still Here Foundation, & Care Partner who didn’t walk away

“There is so much wisdom and beauty on the pages of Don’t Walk Away. Marilyn has masterfully put into words the shared experiences of care-givers whose loved ones are living with Alzheimer’s. It’s not easy. But it can be life-changing. It was for Marilyn Raichle. And lucky for us, Marilyn shares, with beauty and humor, the lessons about life and love she learned from her precious mother, Jean.” — John Sharify, Award-winning broadcast journalist and filmmaker

30% of net profits will be donated to I’m Still Here Foundation Innovation Programs and The Memory Hub/UW Memory Brain Wellness Center