Devoted Husband Devises Sweet Morning Routine for Wife with Dementia to Jog Her Fading Memory

One husband from Annville, Pennsylvania, lived a long and happy life with his beautiful wife. However, when she was diagnosed with dementia, everything changed. He adapted to their new normal and took care of her without complaint.

Carl Gacono adored the love of his life Mary Jane Gacono. They raised six children together and made memories along the way. They never imagined their relationship would take on a new dynamic, but it did.

Mary Jane battled dementia for over a decade and her devoted husband stuck by her side. Every day wasn't easy, but he did his best. The sweet ways Carl helped his wife navigate life are heartwarming.

The Doting Husband Stepped Up

Carl and Mary Jane tied the knot in 1950 and stayed true to their wedding vows in sickness and health. Mary Jane was the pillar of strength in their home for many years, but her husband moved into the caretaker role when she became sick.

Their daughter, Becky Gacono, was immensely proud of her father. She shared their painful and encouraging experiences on the Facebook page, "Our journey through our mom's dementia."

Becky knew life didn't play out as her parents would have dreamed or imagined. But she is grateful for the example they set and how they stayed faithful to their vows.

He Always Went above and beyond for His Wife

Carl was two years older than his beloved wife, but his age never stopped him from going the extra mile for her. After a lifetime of raising kids and spending time with their 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, he was prepared for the journey.

Despite the exhaustion and pain experienced by seeing his wife forget him, Carl ensured Mary Jane stuck to a routine. Their doctors advised that a schedule was good for Mary Jane—it would help jog her memory, so the doting husband kept to a daily plan.

Their Sweet Morning Routine

Mary Jane's fading memory was heartbreaking, but small things made Carl smile and kept his wife happy. He had an adorable morning routine with his partner, which he took great pride in.

He cleaned her glasses, kept her jewelry next to the sink, and helped her put it on. The husband also gave his wife a hand as she got dressed, and he would explain each item to her as he went along. He detailed:

"I always tell her she has two earrings, she has two necklaces, and she has a watch and a separate bracelet on there. So I say she has '2, 2, and 2. Tomorrow she might say, 'Where’s my third necklace?' And I would say to her -- 'it’s 2, 2, 2. Remember?'"

It Was a Labor of Love

The acts of service were a true labor of love, and their daughter Becky was in awe of her dad's commitment and passion. Speaking about her father in 2018, Becky couldn't help but sing his praises. And rightfully so.

Carl took on a task many people would shy away from and did it with a smile. The daughter said:

"[My mom] dedicated her life to loving him and supporting him in all his dreams and being successful. I do think he feels that now it’s his turn. It is unconditional love, without a doubt … He has just been amazing through all this; they’ve always been madly in love with each other.

He Wouldn't Change a Thing

Many days were tiring and challenging, but laughter was the best medicine. The Gacono family noticed how much happier Mary Jane was when they were joyful.

It rubbed off on her, and even though she did not recognize her husband or children, they were content because she knew they were people who loved her.

Carl wouldn't change his life and was honored to take care of his spouse. They had a great marriage, and he would say "I Do" again in a heartbeat if he had the chance.

The Couple Was Committed to Their Vows

Becky knew life didn't play out as her parents would have dreamed or imagined. But she is grateful for the example they set and how they stayed faithful to their vows. She added:

"They take walks. They laugh. They love. They wake up to a new adventure every day. It is not what I hoped or dreamed for them, but I think in the end, they still have each other, and for them - it is enough."

The Online Reaction

The online community was blown away by Carl's devotion and affection for his wife. People sang his praises and thanked him for setting such an excellent example of true love.

Netizens also said love like Carl and Mary Jane's was rare, noting just how special their relationship was. Theirs was a tale for the ages, and they inspired many online users:

"Warms my heart to see the care they give her. God bless the friends and family members who have to watch someone go through this terrible disease. Just love them as much as you can."

- (Shirley Bimber) June 23, 2018

"Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's is a terrible thing. You watch them disappear daily. I took care of my husband at home until he took his last breath in my arms."

- (Edith Burton Wedgeworth) June 23, 2018

"A love like that is hard to come by these days."

- (Blanca Miranda) June 23, 2019

"Yes ... DEFINITELY keep her smiling. SO much love."

- (Janet Norris) June 23, 2018

Carl Gacono and Mary Jane's story continues to warm hearts and encourage people worldwide. Although both of them have passed away, their legacy of love lives on. May they fly high with the angels and enjoy heaven together.

Click here for another duo's beautiful display of devotion. A woman moved into her husband's nursing home because she couldn't bear to live without him. She surprised him, and his reaction was priceless.