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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Huckleberries Online

Not all love stories have happy endings

These days, Sonny Thrush, here with his wife, Elaine Thrush, receives care at a nursing home in Spokane Valley. He entered the nursing home after growing increasingly disoriented due to Alzheimer’s disease.  (J. BART RAYNIAK)
These days, Sonny Thrush, here with his wife, Elaine Thrush, receives care at a nursing home in Spokane Valley. He entered the nursing home after growing increasingly disoriented due to Alzheimer’s disease. (J. BART RAYNIAK)

Sonny and Elaine Thrush

A former Navy Seal, he earned a master’s degree in education. And nine years ago, at age 63, still trim and fit, he found the love of his life. But now, he’s in a wheelchair and needs help feeding himself. His eyes still light up when he sees his wife, but when asked her name, he rubs his face with his hands and slowly shakes his head.

Sonny Thrush is near the end of his long goodbye. Cindy Hval, SR Full story here.

Do you know anyone who has been affected by Alzheimer's disease?

 



Huckleberries Online

D.F. Oliveria started Huckleberries Online on Feb. 16, 2004. Oliveria's Sunday print Huckleberries is a past winner of the national Herb Caen Memorial Column contest.