A Journey of Love and Resilience: The Frechette’s Battle Against Frontotemporal Dementia

On a seemingly ordinary morning in May 2006, Kimberly Anne Frechette, a celebrated sales champion in Spokane’s furniture industry, awoke to a perplexing ringing in her ears. What seemed like a minor annoyance on her 52nd birthday was, in fact, a harbinger of a life-altering storm brewing on the horizon.

For 48 years, Kimberly had been the backbone of her industry, her dedication unwavering. But in 2021, a series of uncharacteristic errors in customer invoices revealed a hidden struggle. Leon, her devoted husband of 38 years and a seasoned entrepreneur for 48 years with multiple businesses, including a mobile food venture, sensed a disturbing change in her memory. Despite seeking medical advice in March 2020, their concerns were initially overlooked.

Tragedy struck on July 31, 2021. Kimberly’s condition forced her into an unexpected medical leave from the job she loved, culminating in a heartbreaking job loss three months later. As her physical health declined, Leon transitioned from a supportive partner to a full-time caregiver, all while managing his own businesses.

Their journey through the healthcare maze was fraught with challenges. Multiple neurologists turned them away, leaving them grappling with uncertainty. It wasn’t until late 2022 that Providence Stroke and Cognitive Care Center accepted Kimberly, leading to a diagnosis that shook their world: Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)—Stage 2, a condition notably similar to that of actor Bruce Willis. On December 27, 2023, her neurologist changed her condition to Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia (bvFTD)—Stage 2.

The prognosis was grim: an average life expectancy of six years post-diagnosis. Yet, in the face of adversity, Leon’s resolve only strengthened. He invested their life savings and Kimberly’s 401K to ensure her comfort, focusing on diet, natural supplements, and specialized care. Through his unwavering dedication, Kimberly’s physical health showed signs of improvement, but the cognitive decline continued its relentless march.

Navigating the complexities of caregiving and business, Leon faced another hurdle: the limitations of the caregiving system. With only minimal support available, Leon shouldered the immense responsibility of caring for his wife while keeping his businesses afloat.

“Kimberly’s world is a delicate balance. Her mind, trapped in a perpetual loop, oscillates between the innocence of a child and the awareness of an adult,” Leon shares. “Caring for someone with bvFTD is a testament to love and endurance. It’s a full-time commitment that extends beyond the capacity of one person.”

We stand in solidarity with Leon and Kimberly during this challenging chapter. Leon continues to operate his businesses from his home on Spokane’s South Hill: Nutty Bavarian Northwest, Spud Spikes, BondhusTools.com, and AskToolTalk. His resilience and dedication to Kimberly are a testament to the power of love and the strength of the human spirit.

Together, we can extend our support and understanding to the Frechettes, who remind us of the profound impact of compassion in times of adversity.

Reflecting on a remarkable demonstration of community solidarity, a business associate previously launched a GoFundMe campaign named “Frontotemporal Disease (Dementia) Strikes Another” to support the Frechette family amidst their difficulties. This considerate initiative was designed to offer financial assistance and express unity with the Frechettes as they faced the intricacies of Kimberly’s condition. The campaign, which has since concluded, successfully united people in their support and generosity towards the family.

Leon has now initiated his own GoFundMe campaign titled “Frontotemporal Disease Dementia: Help Kimberly!” to support his wife during this challenging time. Those wishing to contribute to or share the campaign can find it on the GoFundMe platform.