Promise Me, Daughter

Promise Me, Daughter highlights the heartbreaking dilemma that adult children-or anyone caring for a loved one-often face when a parent is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease or other debilitating conditions. How do you respond when your loved one cries out: "Promise me, promise me, that you will never, ever, put me in a nursing home!"?

Written from the perspective of a devoted daughter who is also a nurse attorney, this book offers invaluable insights into the family dynamics, healthcare demands, and legal issues caregivers may encounter during the course of this disease. During her mother's long illness, the author worked as an attorney representing entities across the continuum of long-term care. She shares her personal and professional knowledge through poignant narratives while providing current information about the disease and modern care approaches.

The author guides readers through the challenges of a daughter's enduring love, including the realities of long-distance caregiving and sharing responsibilities with siblings. She demonstrates how grief can take a toll on families while also strengthening bonds. This memoir is a blend of a daughter's journey, her mother's story, and enlightening anecdotes. While not a self-help book, it provides practical insights and nuggets of comfort, courage, and confidence for those on a similar path.

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Kathleen A. Hessler is a registered nurse and attorney who has represented entities across the continuum of long-term care, including home health and hospice agencies. An award-winning writer, she contributed the chapter "Health Care Law" to Giddens' Concepts for Nursing Practice (2021 and 2025).