The Imperfect Caregiver

I couldn’t resist taking a Facebook quiz that said it would tell me who should play me in a movie about my life. I admit it; I sometimes fantasize about who would be cast in the movie version of the book, Confessions of an Imperfect Caregiver.

However, my first thoughts always go to who would play my father-in-law, Rodger. When I close my eyes I picture Robert Duvall in the part. I see in him the same combination of strength and vulnerability Rodger displayed throughout his life. And, he has the talent to capture the subtle nuances of a mind and body failing as mental illness, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease ravage him. Robert Duvall could portray Rodger’s sly humor during the moment’s he chose to reveal it and the rare tender moments we shared during moments of clarity.

That part was easy. But, I could never decide who should play me.  Since I became a caregiver in my 50s no beautiful young ingénues need apply. Meryl Streep and Diane Keaton are possibilities. Since Diane Keaton and Robert Duval have worked together in the past, I think it would be nice to bring them together again. My husband was the first to suggest Meryl Streep. I would be thrilled to have either woman step into my shoes.

The results of the quiz didn’t include either of them. I was quite surprised to see this message:

Breaking News: Julianne Moore will play YOU in the movie version of your life! The announcement went on to say:

“Julianne Moore is known to play humble, likable and somewhat complicated characters and guess what – you fit right in.

You are a likable person, but you are not quite like everyone else. You are always looking for new challenges, new adventures and new experiences, and that’s what puts you aside from the rest of us. You truly have a special and unique soul, and Julianne will do it justice.”

Since all of these women are timeless and amazing, it’s hard for me to choose. All have the talent to portray an imperfect woman who despite her best intentions, makes mistakes that could have devastating consequences for the very person she is trying to save. A woman who has panic attacks and loses her temper, who despite the stress maintains a sense of humor and sometimes can be very creative when rational choices just don’t work.  Yes, they can do this. I can see every one of  them, at some time in their life, being one of the millions of women who become caregivers for a loved one.

Blog followers and casting directors looking for your next project, who would be your pick to play me in the movie version of Confessions of an Imperfect Caregiver?  Who is your pick to play Rodger? And while we’re at it, who should play my wonderful husband and caregiver partner, Michael Carducci?

I don’t want to influence you or limit your choices when it comes to casting Rodger’s or Michael’s part. Please list your suggestions in the following comment box. I look forward to hearing from you.