Alzheimer's disease is believed to have affected more than 5 million Americans according to experts. Former Wisconsin Governor Martin Schreiber's wife Elaine, who suffers from the disorder, has been an inspiration to Martin in writing his book "My Two Elaines."
Alzheimer's disease is a common cause of dementia, a condition that causes loss of cognitive functions such as remembering and thinking. Because of this, patients who suffer from the disease tend to depend on others even with simple daily activities.
Alzheimer's disease has affected Elaine for 12 years. Martin stayed by her side and was inspired to document his experience and role as a husband and caregiver to his wife in his book "My Two Elaines," Wauwatosa Now reported.
The former governor's book, "My Two Elaines," which he has co-written with Cathy Breitenbucher is said to be focused on how to learn, cope and survive as a caregiver to someone with Alzheimer's disease. Martin's second "Elaine" is suggested to be featured in the book as well but who is second "Elaine?"
"The second Elaine is the woman who developed Alzheimer's and who is quite a different person. And it is beyond my wildest dreams that I ever thought a person who would be someone I never knew before," Martin said in a report from WISN.
"My Two Elaines" author and husband to Elaine reportedly discovered a journal of his wife before writing his book. In the note Elaine wrote:
"My Marty who is and always has been my strength and comfort. He knows I'm trying my best and tries hard to help me. I know it is no easier for him than for me. I wish my Alzheimer's would dissipate. I would like to be the smart wife and mother I used to be."
Alzheimer's disease did not just affect Elaine's life but also Martin's and what they have been through is a touching and inspiring story. Martin is actually touring to share "My Two Elaines" to more caregivers to allow them to be inspired and learn from his experience.
