Like Falling Through a Cloud

What if the dreaded world of Alzheimer’s was also a world of emotional discovery? Eugenia Zukerman’s poetry and simple prose, both heartbreaking and ultimately inspirational, ushers the reader into her world as she unflinchingly examines familial loyalties, moments from her past and present, and the need to face an uncertain future due to the diagnosis of a condition that she truly hopes “will remain unnamed.” Flutist, writer, artistic director of a major music series, television journalist, educator, and internet entrepreneur, Zukerman addresses her “lapses and losses” as she confronts and deals with a future under the shadow of her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Touching, honest, and fearlessly heartfelt, Zukerman recounts her discovery, consultations, and diagnosis, all while navigating the death of her 103-year-old mother, a performance at the Kennedy Center, and the consolidation of her life during a move to upstate New York. As she finds strength in family love, through self-examination via Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and the enduring power of creating music, Zukerman teaches us the importance of living-in-the-now, while accepting what comes next may remain a mystery.

Eugenia Zukerman

Hailed by the press as “one of the finest flutists of our time,” Eugenia Zukerman is an internationally renowned recitalist and soloist who enjoys her busy schedule as a performer, writer, artistic director, and educator. She was the Artistic Director of the Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival in Vail, Colorado for 13 years and the Arts Correspondent on CBS Sunday Morning for more than 25 years. Her list of writing credits includes four books and multiple screenplays, articles, and book reviews. A Massachusetts native, Zukerman makes her home in upstate New York with her husband, two horses, three dogs, and assorted wildlife.