The year was going well with our new life and my new job. I slowly noticed some things about my wife’s health. Of course, I had spoken and met her family (children) many times and I remember something that her daughter had said to me. It was something like “My mom has an issue with her speech and getting the words out”. I had not paid much attention to it at that time because I had not noticed it before. Her daughter and 2 sons were somewhat aware of this previously, only her daughter mentioned it.
I spoke to my wife about this, and we decided that we needed to investigate it. I researched for a neurologist in the area. After meeting with the neurologist, he suggested that she have some tests performed to assess exactly what the issue was. MRI and CAT scan revealed no damage to her brain other than normal age-related atrophy. After the mental assessment was complete it was determined that she has Frontotemporal Dementia –
Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is the second major form of frontotemporal degeneration that affects language skills, speaking, writing, and comprehension. PPA normally comes on in midlife, before age 65, but can occur in late life also.
- There are no specific treatments for any of the frontotemporal subtypes. Some medications can reduce agitation, irritability, and/or depression. These treatments should be used to help improve quality of life.
- FTD inevitably gets worse over time and the speed of decline differs from person to person. For many years, individuals with FTD have shown muscle weakness and coordination problems, leaving them needing a wheelchair — or bedbound. Eventually, people with frontotemporal degeneration die because of the physical changes that can cause skin, urinary tract, and/or lung infections.
https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/frontotemporal-dementia
When my wife passed from dementia in December 2020, I was of course devastated. We had been together for 5 years and as her main caretaker, all my soul and my life were emptied.
After grieving (it never completely leaves), I realized that our promises were not fulfilled. Before her Aphasia took her voice, she made me promise to fulfill our desire to travel to Asia. It wasn’t her first choice as her heritage was Hungarian. That slowly changed when we became “addicted” to the Asian travel and food shows we always watched on Saturday morning PBS.
A short culinary history. I attended culinary school in 2000 (Le Cordon Bleu), and since then, I have taken every opportunity in everything food, beverage, and the culinary arts.
So, full circle, that is why I am here.
My primary request is for assistance in funding my airfare to my base in the Philippines and providing funds that will allow me to fully immerse myself in the wonders that await me there. I would like to raise a minimum of USD 20,000 for a 6 to 9-month stay. Once I am in the Philippines, I will have the privilege of connecting with personal friends throughout Asia who are not only enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge but also dedicated to taking me off the beaten path to explore remote and lesser-known places brimming with history, culture, and culinary delights.
I plan to visit a multitude of enchanting destinations, subject to travel permissions and circumstances. Through captivating photographs, engaging narratives, and frequent updates, I will ensure that you are an integral part of this adventure, even if you cannot physically join me. I will keep a diary on my blog- Bluejgourmet.com
By supporting my journey, you will contribute to the preservation and celebration of diverse cultures, the exchange of knowledge, and the promotion of understanding and respect among different communities. Your generosity will empower me to document and share these extraordinary experiences with the world, fostering a sense of global unity and appreciation.
Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful impact on my ability to seize this incredible opportunity. Whether it is the cost of a cup of coffee or a modest donation, your support will bring me one step closer to realizing our dreams and making a lasting impact on my life.
I am deeply grateful for your consideration and support in making this travel adventure a reality. Together, let’s embrace the beauty of the world, celebrate diverse cultures, and inspire others to pursue their dreams. If you would like more information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a part of this incredible journey!
With sincere gratitude,
John Thornton
AKA-Bluejgourmet
Email – jthornton001@gmail.com
Paypal.me – paypal.me/johnthornton325
Zelle – Bluejgourmet@gmail.com