It's been nearly five years since Click! co-founder Frances Smersh was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer's Disease at age 48, and one of the most common questions we get in the store is "how is she doing?".
It's a difficult question to answer because all things considered, she is in a great place. She socializes with friends and customers on the floor at Click!, continues to make art, and is generally in good spirits. These are the things we focus on.
In other news, she is increasingly confused by the simplest of conversation, is unsteady on her feet (she's currently wearing a cast on her right hand as the result of a recent fall), and has a hard time finding words to express herself.
We're continuing to look for help with her care and appreciate leads for local, recommended caregivers.
Before she was diagnosed, Frances volunteered at Providence Mt. St. Vincent, assisting with art classes. She was recently asked to show her paintings at The Mount, in what she laughs about as a funny turn of events. This Friday, January 31st, is Frances's birthday and she will be celebrating with a reception there from 5-6pm. Refreshments will be served!
Providence Mt. St. Vincent is located at 4831 35th Ave SW; the show is in the 2nd Floor McCallister Hall Art Gallery through February 15, when it will move to the fifth floor gallery to be shown through the end of March.
I had a chance To meet Frances, and her husband I must say these two are such amazing souls. I will keep Frances in my prayers. I am touched by the love these two have for one another. I will say I went home thinking about the these two are the definition of true love.
Francis. My thoughts and prayers are with you my dear friend… I knew you in grade school at St John Of God… Many many Blessing to you and your family.
Happy Birthday Francis
Lots of love
Martha
I don’t know how I missed this! My thought and prayers are with you and your family! Have a good show!
Please give her a kiss for us on Friday. Needless to say, our prayers and petitions are for her well being through all this and your good physical and mental health.
I have observed her paintings (early to present), those that Nat and Ted have, the ones you have featured in your website and in particular, the one Maria received for Christmas. I am discerning an effort through her style and color choices, to express her inner mind. It would be so interesting to follow these from painting to painting and even more so while observing how she was feeling as she created each one.
We trust the exhibition will be a success and we pray that it gives her a great inner sense of pride and satisfaction.
Love to you both always.
We love the Mount! Our kids went to the Intergenerational Child Center through preschool. I wish our family could attend the reception. We will be sure to see the display on our own! Healing thoughts for Francis! Her art is beautiful.