Woman Shows How Grandmother With Dementia Still Recognizes Her Favorite Doris Day Songs

The power of love and connection can be a truly remarkable thing, transcending even the most daunting challenges and leaving an indelible mark on our lives. A heartwarming post shared by a woman on social media has captured the hearts of many, showcasing the unwavering love and devotion her grandparents share. 

The TikTok post, which has since gone viral, revealed a truly astonishing aspect of the grandmother’s relationship with her husband. Despite struggling with dementia, a condition that had significantly impacted her memory and cognitive abilities, she could still recall her husband and their special signature call-and-response catchphrase, which had been an integral part of their connection.

The inspiring TikTok video shows dementia-ridden grandmother recognizing favorite Doris Day songs

@bmilam1 Dementia tried to take everything away, but she never forgot her part- bushel and a peck, a hug around the neck…….and to the moon! ? #truelove #dementia #andtothemoon ♬ original sound – ⟢

 

In the video posted by Bridgette on TikTok, she showcased the enduring love and connection between her grandmother, Dorothy Bagley, and her husband, Merv. The clip, which has garnered 6.4 million views, revealed the challenges Dorothy faces due to her dementia diagnosis in 2021, including struggling to recognize people and places once dear to her. However, in a beautiful display of the power of love and memory, Merv triggered a heartfelt response from her using a special catchphrase they shared. The catchphrase, “A bushel and a peck, a hug around the neck,” is met with Dorothy’s perfect response, “And to the moon!”

While Speaking with PEOPLE, Bridgette revealed that the catchphrase was inspired by the song “A Bushel and a Peck” from the Guys and Dolls musical. The couple had picked it up during one of their drives almost a decade ago and adopted it as a way for them to express their love and affection for each other. Surprisingly, this became the only thing that Dorothy could remember.

Bridgette speaks on the enduring love between her grandmother and her husband, Merv

Bridgette explained that the love story of Dorothy and Merv is one for the ages. The couple, who both shared a passion for dancing, met in 2001. Their whirlwind romance culminated in a romantic elopement in 2003, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Together, they worked at the same shoe store until their retirement, after which they spent their days dancing, hiking, and riding motorbikes, making the most of every moment they shared.

Despite their idyllic life, the couple faced their fair share of challenges. In 2004, just a year after their marriage, Dorothy was diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, Merv’s unwavering love and support saw them through the difficult period, with him holding her hand through every step of her treatment. Bridgette credits Merv’s unconditional love as the driving force behind Dorothy’s strength and resilience. Though Dorothy’s dementia diagnosis eventually forced them to stop dancing, the couple’s love remained strong.