Review: Grayson Banks' war with arthritis
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 04 23, 2012
"Losing His Grip" by Jennifer Jenkins is a short story about a man called Grayson Banks who is aging and has a bad case of arthritis.  His disease has severely limited what he can do, and he must retire from his profession as a dentist.  His wife has not been so affected and seems to be able to do most of what she likes to do, while Grayson is often dependent on her even though he doesn't like to admit it or like it.His resentments and grief come to a head when the couple attend a ceremony during which Grayson receives an award.  It's a cold, snowy night in San Francisco, of all places, and he isn't thrilled about going, but they go anyway.  Grayson's frustration and anger can be felt as he battles life with arthritis, and his wife's patient understanding sometimes isn't enough to make him feel better.This is a bittersweet tale of how old age treats some people while others may be a little luckier, and it is also a story of love.  I was engaged in this couple's life from the very beginning and found myself caught up in the story.  The writing is quite good and flows along to an ending that proves a lifelong love between these two people.  I enjoyed reading it very much.I highly recommend this short story.