J Steven Hunt

Laura's Forgotten Life J Steven Hunt

Previously titled: Love and Deception- One Family's Encounter with Dementia. --Advertising exec Mark Sanders is on a trajectory to success. To offset the stress of growing a business, responsibilities for his family, and the pull away from time for himself, he keeps a healthy sense of humor. During the quiet moments away from the rat race, he also keeps the memories of his childhood close to his heart. They recall his family history, as told by his mother, Laura, about life on their Colorado ranch where the joys of a close family and adventure played out for more than four generations. The story follows an intriguing mystery of why Laura's music, and the creation of song lyrics as a teenager, seem to follow her carefree spirit throughout life. Young Laura falls in love with fellow musician C. J., and the future looks bright for them both. But when trouble threatens their relationship, friend Tom Sanders proves to be the anchor that carries her through the disappointments of unrequited love. The saga begins in Norway and progresses through their family history from 1871 to the present, showing the interplay of true love and the consequences of deceit. When Laura's life eventually digresses into a fog of dementia, her family struggles with her unconventional and sometimes eccentric behavior, and must make tough choices involving intervention. As the disease plays a greater part in Laura's life, her music also plays a role in how she and her family cope. -- A portion of the author's income from this book is being donated to the American Alzheimer's Association.