Helpful Caregiving Question

Garvin, my brother-in-law had been suffering from dementia for approximately 7 years.  With each year, we saw a diminishing of the person we knew and loved.  He died this past July, and I wrote his wife, Barbara, the following email:
Dear Barbara:
I can only begin to imagine what it would be like to have my husband, lover and friend gradually diminish right before my eyes. I am so sorry about your pain.  I am so sorry that a once healthy man has been so diminished.
I wonder what two or three words you would choose to describe your Garvin as he was in his earlier years?  We look forward to hearing some of your stories soon.  I know what words I would use to describe you as a wife and friend of Garvin.  Those words are loyal, dedicated, strong and loving.
Thank you, Barbara, for loving and caring for my brother-in-law, Garvin.
Thinking of you,
Karen
Barbara responded, “I have read and reread your words over and over.  I will cherish them always.  I thought and thought of the words I find