An Ordinary Yet Unusual Morning
(My life changed unexpectedly after receiving an early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis.)
I’ve lived for 45 years, nearly half a century. Yet each day still surprises me, feeling both fresh and strangely familiar. Today started like any other—a quiet morning, peaceful but accompanied by that familiar, persistent headache.
I sat in the living room with a warm glass of water, greeted by Mrs. Joo, who takes care of my home, and my furry companions, Chelsea and Louis.
As I sipped slowly, a sudden ring from my phone broke the silence.
“Hello?” I answered.
“Hello, this is *** Hospital. Your test results are in. Could you come in today?”
My life had become incredibly busy over the past five years. Growing my business left no time for hospital visits or health concerns. But today, something felt different.
“Yes, what time should I come in?”
As I prepared to leave, I suddenly forgot where I was heading.
“Wait, where am I going again?” My eyes caught a memo on my dashboard:
“On the way to the hospital.”
A Call That Changes Everything
At the hospital, I waited until my name was called.
“Ms. Kim Jae-hee, please come in.”
Inside the doctor’s office, the familiar pleasantries began.
“How have you been feeling lately?”
“I’ve been busy,” I replied, “but the headaches haven’t improved despite the medication.”
The doctor sighed softly. “Let’s look at your MRI results.”
I stared blankly at the images, not understanding what I saw.
The Shock of an Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
“Do you see this area here?” the doctor pointed.
“Yes, why?” I asked nervously.
“You’re showing early signs of Alzheimer’s.”
I blinked in disbelief. “Alzheimer’s? Me?”
“Yes, it explains your severe headaches and forgetfulness. Early management can help ease symptoms somewhat.”
“But I’m not even fifty yet…” My voice trailed off.
“These days, age doesn’t necessarily determine this condition. The best we can do is manage the symptoms.”
This early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis left me confused, angry, and scared.
But I sat silently, too stunned even to cry.
Outside the hospital, I sat in my car, staring blankly at the bright, cloudless sky. My mind felt numb.
Denial and Anger
“No, this can’t be right,” I whispered. “That doctor must be wrong.”
I drove to the office, my thoughts swirling in chaos. Nothing seemed real. As I entered the lobby, someone called out cheerfully.
“Hi, CEO Kim!”
I froze. Who was this person again? Panic surged through me as my mind raced desperately for a name.
How long could I hide this? How long until everyone found out?
Stay tuned for Chapter 2, where hidden truths begin to unravel.
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