“She No Longer Recognizes Me…”: Caridad Sanchez’s Daughter Shares Heartbreaking Journey Through Dementia

Veteran Filipina actress Caridad Sanchez, beloved for her roles in classic films and television, is now facing one of life’s most challenging battles: dementia. Her daughter, grief counselor Cathy Babao, has opened up about her mother’s condition, offering a poignant glimpse into their journey and shedding light on the realities of caring for a loved one with this debilitating illness.

A Gradual Farewell

In 2015, Caridad Sanchez was diagnosed with dementia, a condition characterized by a decline in cognitive function, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior. Despite maintaining physical strength, Sanchez began exhibiting signs of memory loss and confusion.

“My mother is fading. Day by day, week by week. It is the most difficult challenge of my adult life, next to losing my son,” Cathy shared in a heartfelt blog post.

Cathy describes the experience as “anticipatory grief,” the profound sorrow felt when watching a loved one slowly decline, knowing that the person they once were is gradually slipping away.

Moments of Clarity Amidst Confusion

Despite the challenges, there are moments that bring solace. In August 2023, Cathy recounted a touching interaction with her mother. Upon greeting her, Caridad gave Cathy an unusually tight hug. When Cathy asked, “What are we? Who am I to you?” Caridad looked into her eyes and replied, “Love. You are love. I love you very much.”

“I got so choked up. It was an answer that I did not expect,” Cathy recalled. “I held back my tears and said, ‘I love you too, mom.’”

These fleeting moments of recognition are treasures for families dealing with dementia, offering brief respites from the heartache of the disease.

Family Disagreements and Public Disclosure

The decision to share Caridad’s condition publicly was met with mixed reactions within the family. Cathy’s brother, Alexander Joseph Babao, expressed surprise and disapproval, stating that their mother only has a “mild cognitive handicap that goes with aging.”

In response, Cathy emphasized the importance of openness and awareness. “There is nothing shameful about admitting that a loved one has dementia,” she wrote. “Denial is only to the detriment of the person with dementia.”

She believes that sharing their story can help other families navigate similar challenges, fostering understanding and compassion.

A Legacy of Strength and Compassion

Caridad Sanchez’s career spanned decades, with notable roles in films and television series that left an indelible mark on Philippine entertainment. Her portrayal of strong, nurturing characters resonated with audiences, making her a household name.

Now, as she faces the trials of dementia, her family continues to honor her legacy by advocating for awareness and support for those affected by the disease.

Understanding Dementia

Dementia is a collective term used to describe various symptoms of cognitive decline, such as forgetfulness. It is a symptom of several underlying diseases and brain disorders. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.

Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their families. Support systems, therapy, and medications can help manage symptoms and provide comfort.

A Message of Hope

Cathy’s journey with her mother serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the challenges, moments of love and connection persist. Her story encourages others to approach dementia with empathy, patience, and openness.

“I believe that God in His infinite wisdom and goodness, grants us grace-filled moments to soothe the heart to help us carry on,” Cathy reflects.

Related Articles

Caridad Sanchez’s Daughter Cathy Babao Emotional as Mom with Dementia Calls Her ‘Love’
Caridad’s Son Belies Mom’s Dementia; Daughter Says Denial is Detrimental
Screen Icon Caridad Sanchez Has Dementia, Says Daughter Cathy Babao