This episode is in memory of Vange Thompson, who passed away on September 27, 2025.

Her husband, Larry Thompson, shares their story and what it truly means to vow for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.

Larry walked beside Vange through her entire battle with Alzheimer’s with one intention: To keep the vow he made to her.

In this episode, Larry discusses:

• ​Meeting at just 12 and 13 years old
• ​Life and marriage after the Vietnam War
• ​What 51 years of marriage looks like
• ​The importance of adapting with the one you love
• ​The meaning behind making a lifelong vow
• ​How Alzheimer’s can echo through a family tree
• ​Vange’s shift from caretaker to patient
• ​What it means to prepare as a caretaker
• ​The financial reality of the medical system
• ​Building an environment rooted in dignity for someone living with Alzheimer’s
• ​Learning how to communicate with an Alzheimer’s patient

Most of all,

He reflects on what it means to step into the role of a caretaker and why preparation must begin now. 

This is Last Words: Death Perception.

This is Larry Thompson.