A sad end for a modeller

Wirraway wrote:

I'm going to try and resurrect them and hopefully show them to him.

Very touching. I wish you luck and hope he enjoys them.

My dad died from the ravages of Parkinsons 3 years ago this Thanksgiving.

He wasn't a modeller but he spent every free moment working in his yard.

Its very sad to see anyone slowly waste away from the effects of this disease.

My heart goes out to the man and his family.

That is a very nice idea

My step father, who passed away at easter, used to build balsa remote control aircraft. He got Parkinsons and Altzeihmers which eventually put an end to his building but he still bought the kits and parts. Like this guys wife my mum is makeing sre they all go to good homes.

While your intention is certainly noble, I'd suggest that you might want to discuss it with his wife first. 

If he had become frustrated or depressed due the deterioration of his modeling skills, then your refurbishing of his built-up kits might have the unintended consequence of reminding him of what he has lost or be interpreted as criticism of his work. 

Mark

RedCorvette wrote:

While your intention is certainly noble, I'd suggest that you might want to discuss it with his wife first.  If he had become frustrated or depressed due the deterioration of his modeling skills, then your refurbishing of his built-up kits might have the unintended consequence of reminding him of what he has lost or be interpreted as criticism of his work.  Mark

A good point, certainly do ask the wife for her opinion. On the other hand, I think most modellers would be pleased to see someone pickup the pieces when they cannot.

 Very nice gesture Wirrawy,nobel indeed. One of my greatest pleasures is building and collecting, been at it for the best part of 40 years, if I was in that position it would crush me to see my stash and tools go because if illness.

Just my 2 cents.

Sandy

Sorry to hear that Wirraway.

My mom has Alzheimers and she is starting to forget a lot of major things in her life.

She thinks it is just forgetfulness for her age (she's only 81) but I know the difference.

It is a horrible disease as it robs your memory and then takes your life. 

Don't forget about Michael J Fox, he has had this disease for years...it knows no age limits.

His inability to continue on with a hobby he loved may be a source of frustration and depression. Chat with the wife or stop in to chat with him, ask his "secrets of modeling" and make him feel useful again.