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The Crow Jacket
Navigating the Challenges of Dementia
by Marian Heemskerk


Dementia presents a complex and uncertain journey, leaving both the diagnosed individual and their loved ones questioning what lies ahead. How can one prepare? What steps can family and caregivers take to cope? In this poignant and timely book, Marian Heemskerk offers practical insights for individuals diagnosed with dementia and their caregivers drawn from over forty-four years in the healthcare industry. Through a blend of educational content and real-life stories of those affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, Marian provides guidance through the challenges of the disease. She emphasizes the importance of preparation and understanding the roles of family, friends, and professional caregivers. The Crow Jacket not only provides support and education but also honours and celebrates the crucial role caregivers play in the lives of those with dementia by expressing gratitude for caregivers who enrich the lives of the elderly with compassion and care.


Marian Heemskerk photo

Marian Heemskerk is a dedicated healthcare professional with over four decades of experience in nursing, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for older adults. Her career began as a candy striper in 1977, evolving through roles such as Care Aide, Registered Nurse Assistant (RNA), and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) specializing in gerontology. Marian’s pursuit of knowledge and commitment to excellence is highlighted by her Masters in Leadership in Health Specialties (MA) and obtaining the prestigious Certified Health Executive (CHE) designation. Currently a director in an older adult community, Marian combines her extensive experience with innovative approaches to care. Residing on the picturesque West Coast of Canada with her husband, John, Marian enjoys a vibrant life filled with creativity and exploration. The beauty of nature, especially the ocean, inspires her, and she treasures moments on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia. Her interests include crafting, cooking, photography, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Her passion for learning and writing is evident in her two published books and five poems showcased at the Canadian Institute of Poetry in Ottawa. Connect with Marian and learn more about her work at https://marianheemskerk.com or at mnoortheemskerk@gmail.com About the cover designer of The Crow Jacket: Christina Heemskerk is a Creative Director and Graphic Designer. In her early years, she had the opportunity to study art and design in New York City, Europe, and at Langara College in Vancouver, British Columbia. Christina received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec, with a focus on design. She painted the crow piece, The Painted Crow, in one of her fine art classes in Montreal. Christina lives in Vancouver, BC, where she owns and operates a design studio with her business partner. Her love of art and design truly interplays and informs each other with solid graphic imagery, carefully considered composition, and typographic expression, as seen in her abstract painting and collage work.


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