Page created by: Heather Chase

Andre Monier (known to me as Jido-arabic for grandpa) was my grandfather on my mothers side. I only had one set of grandparents because my fathers parents passed away when I was very young. Because of this, my grandparents on my mothers side are very special to me, and I am very lucky that they live so close. I have many memories of my grandpa, but sadly most of them are from the last few years when his disease started to really affect him. He was a great man, a dentist, a friend, a husband, a father, and a grandpa. I was fortunate enough to be able to spend quite a bit of time with him during his last few months because I was on summer break for school, but of course I wish I could have spent more time with him, especially towards the end. Some special memories I want to share about my Jido was that whenever he saw me he always had a compliment to give me. He would tell me that I looked like a dolly, that I look so beautiful, that I was growing taller and I looked so healthy, and he would always thank me so much for helping him out and talking with him and including him in the conversations. He would call my grandma mommy, which I always thought was so sweet. After every meal she made, he would say thank you, mommy, the food was delicious, and he always finished every little crumb of food on his dish. Jido was the original member and founder of the Clean Plate Club. His smile lit up the room and although he wasnt much of a jokester, he could definitely make us laugh when he wanted to. My grandpa was really special to me, and I miss him very much. To anyone else who has been affected by this terrible disease, you know how hard it is to watch a loved one suffer with it. During the last few weeks of his life, my grandpas health declined very rapidly. Even though he was in a lot of pain and discomfort his last few weeks, he would still kiss my hand when I came to see him to show how much he cared. I wish that I could have taken away all of his pain and have convinced him how he had so much worth and that he was so loved and he was not alone, but I am learning to accept that he is now at peace and his pain has gone, which brings me some closure. I want to badly to tell him again that I love him and give him one more hug, but I know someday I will see him again and until then I have faith that he is resting peacefully in Heaven with the Lord, and he couldnt be in any better care. Andre was a firm believer and supporter of education, especially for women. As I go off to college in a few short days, I will be reminded of my grandpa and I will work hard for him. My education from now on will be dedicated to him and I hope that I will find success and make him proud. I pray that with our donations, the Michael Foundation can find a cure so no one ever has to suffer with Parkinsons again!