I was trying to explain to someone recently how going to see my father after he was committed to a hospital with dementia was one of the most freeing moments in my life. I went home and cried with relief, because I knew that I no longer had to live in fear of receiving a phone call from him or a letter tearing me apart.

I don’t wish dementia on anyone. It’s an awful thing. And also that was the first time I felt truly safe.