I often contemplate mental illness, particularly in light of my personal interest in Alzheimer’s. In my generation, a prevalent sentiment among Korean people is the fear of living with elderly parents who have Alzheimer’s. This disease is unforgiving, constantly challenging one’s unwavering commitment to their parents. As their memories fade and cognitive abilities decline, they may transform into individuals you despise, despite your love and gratitude for them. It’s mentally taxing to accept the reality that your parents may not be the same people they once were, and to face this truth daily. I believe this situation is one of the most cruel in life. Imagine the pain of losing the memory of the person you love and having them act like a stranger to you. Is that person still the same person you cherished? Or has they become an entirely different soul, sharing the same physical characteristics as your parents?