Living with my grandma who had Alzheimer's was a learning experience I will never forget. I recall one specific day when my mom needed to go grocery shopping, leaving me alone with my grandmother. I was anxious as I hoped I wouldn't do or say anything that would spark one of her tantrums. I needed something that would distract her, make her happy for just a few minutes, so I frantically ran upstairs and grabbed my flute that was hidden away from last year. I asked her if she wanted to hear a song I learned and she eagerly and thankfully said yes. I started playing the only song I could remember, My Heart Will Go On, and watched as her smile continued to grow. It was as if all the pain and confusion she was going through went away momentarily. Once I finished playing, she told me how wonderful it sounded and kindly asked if I could play it again, so I did. Finally, I found something that made her happy. 

I always felt like there was nothing I could do to change the situation my grandma was going through, but after learning that music brought her joy I became hopeful. Hopeful that during the span of a short song, she felt happiness. Shortly after I discovered music was a momentary cure, my mom informed me that my grandma’s favorite band used to be the Bee Gees. I took this into consideration and played “How Deep Is Your Love” by the Bee Gees and watched her face glow with excitement. I remember her dancing around my kitchen without a worry in the world. I am forever grateful that I got to experience and witness my grandmother's happiness. It has created a memory of her that I will never forget.