Tanya A. Taibl
Sometimes, dementia uncovers what has not yet been found.
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Debut Memoir
The Words She Left Behind is a deeply personal memoir about the author’s journey in watching her aunt Toni slowly disappear from Alzheimer’s disease, while uncovering lost secrets about her aunt’s past.
When Tanya first becomes Toni’s caretaker by necessity, she discovers over forty years of her aunt’s journals tucked away in a forgotten attic. Through reading Toni’s firsthand account of her progression through the terminal disease, Tanya begins to find understanding and empathy that leads to healing for their whole family—a family who suffered greatly due to Toni’s decades of delusions and hallucinations.
This story shows the unraveling that occurs years before an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, the persistence to seek healing, and the grief that happens before death. Caregivers will relate to the personal account of Alzheimer’s impact on a family, the inside look into the mind of a loved one facing deterioration, and the understanding that leads to forgiveness.
Memoir
& Dementia Resource
Editorial Reviews
& Awards
Readers’ Choice Book Awards
5-Star Award, 2026
A heartfelt, honest, and ultimately hopeful memoir about the ravages of Alzheimer’s and the redemptive power of understanding and forgiveness.
Literary Titan
This is a tender, painful, very human memoir about caregiving, anger, dementia, and the late blooming of compassion. I’d recommend it to readers who like personal memoirs about family healing, and especially to anyone caring for someone with dementia who needs to feel less alone in the grief, frustration, and love of it all.
4-Star Award, 2026
International Impact Awards
Readers’ Favorite Book Awards
5-Star Award, 2026
I highly recommend this memoir for anyone touched by Alzheimer’s, whether they are a caregiver or healthcare professional. I would even encourage adding the book as supplemental reading in academic programs that focus on geriatric issues.
Outstanding Creator Awards
The Words She Left Behind is not merely about Alzheimer's disease. It is about what remains when memory disappears. It is about the stories families tell about one another, the stories people tell themselves, the emotional damage caused by misunderstanding, and the possibility that compassion can arrive even after decades of resentment.
Champion Award, 2026
About the Author
Tanya A. Taibl holds a bachelor’s in special education and a master’s in curriculum and instruction. She has been working in the field of special education for over thirty years.
Recognizing the similarities between caring for those with neurodivergence and neurodegeneration, Tanya found herself eager to learn more about dementia.
She has completed a Dementia Certification Course and has attended a seminar from the National Council for Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP).
Tanya has also been a guest on several dementia-centered and caregiving podcasts.
Caregiver Chats
-Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger, PhD
Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger educates professionals in aging, families and communities on the unique challenges older adults face and the resources available to help them thrive. She also serves as a board member of the National Alliance for Caregiving, board chair for the Dreamweaver Foundation and chair of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Dementia Care Provider Roundtable.
Positive Talk Radio
-Kevin McDonald
Positive Talk Radio is a global multimedia radio show and podcast founded and hosted by Kevin McDonald (alongside co-host Brichelle). Established in 2003, the platform was created to counter fear, negativity, division, and social discord by fostering kindness, personal growth, and hope.
Podcast Appearances
All Home Care Matters
-Lance Slatton
Lance A. Slatton is a dedicated Writer, Author, Influencer, and seasoned Healthcare professional with a rich background spanning over 20 years in the healthcare industry. As a beacon of knowledge and support in the realm of senior care, Lance’s journey is not just a career but a calling to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families, caregivers, and their loved ones as they navigate the complexities of long-term care.
Alzheimer's Speaks
-Lori La Bey
Lori La Bey is not only the founder of , but also a leading influencer in the dementia space and a passionate, inspiring keynote speaker whose voice has lifted individuals and organizations worldwide. Lori shines a light on new and existing products, services, tools, and information that are needed by so many throughout the globe.
Contact
Whether you're seeking a connection with another caregiver, or simply want to share your story, I'd love to hear from you. Let's find a way to connect.
Itsherstorymystoryourstory@gmail.com
I'd love to hear from you!
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Consider me for your next book club chat!
Email for more information.