Deterioration of Memories

The doctor pulled out a small notebook and flipped through the pages, his eyes scanning the notes he had taken so far. "Ashley, I want you to repeat some words back to me," he said, his voice gentle but firm. "I'll say a word, and you try to remember it and say it back to me." Ashley nodded, her eyes focused intently on the doctor's face. He said the word "apple," and Ashley's face went blank. She hesitated, her lips moving as if she was trying to form the word, but it came out as a jumbled mess of sounds. The doctor tried again, using simpler words like "dog" and "house," but Ashley's responses were the same: confusion, hesitation, and ultimately, a shrug. It was as if her mind was a sieve, unable to hold onto even the simplest information. "Okay, let's try something else," the doctor said, putting away his notebook. "Ashley, can you walk for me?" he asked, offering her his hand. Ashley took his hand, and to Erica's relief, she was able to walk without stumbling. It was a small victory, but it was a start. As the doctor finished up his assessment, he excused himself to fill out a report in the nurse's station. Erica sat down beside Ashley, taking her hand in hers. "What do you need, Ash?" Erica asked, looking into her friend's eyes. Ashley looked back at her, her expression vacant. "I...I don't know," she stammered. Erica's heart ached as she watched her best friend, who had always been so confident and capable, struggle to perform even the simplest tasks. It was like watching a toddler learn to navigate the world, and Erica felt a lump form in her throat. The doctor returned, his report complete. "Erica, I've made some notes about Ashley's care," he said, his voice low. "She'll need assistance with daily tasks, like bathing and dressing. She'll also need help with meals and medication. I'll have a home health aide come in to help with her care." Erica nodded, feeling a sense of overwhelm wash over her. She was prepared to take on the challenge, but it was hard to see her friend like this. As the doctor left, Erica turned to Ashley, who was staring blankly into space. "I'm here for you, Ash," Erica said, squeezing her hand. "I'll take care of you." Ashley looked at her, her eyes unfocused. "Who...who are you?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Erica's heart broke, but she forced a smile onto her face. "I'm Erica, your best friend," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "I'm here to help you, no matter what."