Renowned Nollywood actress, Joke Silva, recently shared details about the marital struggles she and her husband, Olu Jacobs, are facing due to his battle with dementia.
During an emotional interview with media personality and actress, Nancy Isime, Silva opened up about how the illness has impacted their relationship.
Silva described her husband as an exceptional father and an incredible husband who fulfilled his responsibilities with unwavering dedication.
Reflecting on their early years together, she emphasized that Jacobs was not just her best friend but also her pillar of support in their marriage. However, the progression of his condition has brought significant changes to their dynamic.
Silva shared, "It hasn't been easy... There came a point where I had to accept that everything happening is the reality, and it's as if the person I married is no longer there 80 percent of the time."
"But here's the thing, when he was present, he was an amazing father to our children and an exceptional husband. He was practically my best friend."
Despite the challenges posed by Jacobs' dementia, Silva continues to hold deep affection for him.
She acknowledged that the love and connection they once shared may not be as prominent now, but she emphasized her enduring love for him, saying, "The husband I knew is no more there for me, but this man who is here is someone I still love."
Having been married for 37 years, and knowing each other for a total of 42 years, including five years of dating before marriage, Silva recognized the initial hurdles they faced as they navigated the early stages of their relationship.
She has now come to accept the reality of their situation and sees herself more as a caregiver to her husband, akin to caring for a father, rather than being in a conventional husband-wife relationship.
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