Dear Mary,

I have just read your October, 2008, post for the first time.  I'm sorry my reply is so delayed, but I would like to extend my friendship to you. 

Before I was diagnosed, over three years ago, as being in the early stages of Alzheimer's (by a PET scan, at my request, since my mother died with Alzheimer's and I wanted to begin treatment as early as possible if I did), I had complained to my doctors for years about not being able to smell - not aware at the time that it was a symptom that could indicate Alzheimer's.  None of them took an interest in that symptom. 

Now that I feel I should disclose my Alzheimer's diagnosis in doctor and hospital visits, after having done that, I suspect that some medical personnel do not feel I am as "with it" when I offer information they should know in order to treat me for other matters.  I have not gotten lost yet, or enacted obvious Alzheimer's performances, but some family members also treat me differently, too.  So, I know how distressed you must be after apparently losing the confidence of your own circle of doctors and family.

If you are still on this web site, I would love to hear how you are doing now.  We can go through together.

Sojourner