Dementia is a cruel disease that affects over 46 million people all around the world. For those who are left to care for people suffering from dementia, there are many painful moments. However, amidst all the pain, there are also moments of love and joy.

MJ Grant was raised by her deaf parents, Manley and Carmen Grant, in Sanford, Maine. Sadly, Carmen has gotten dementia in recent years, but MJ loves spending time with her mother despite the devastating toll of the illness.

Earlier this winter, MJ decided to take her mother to the beach for the day. When they got there, something happened that filled MJ’s heart with joy, and the moment has since gone viral.

The video below opens with MJ asking Carmen who her mother is. Carmen is confused at first, clearly not knowing who MJ is, but her daughter remains patient with her.

“Did I give birth to you?” Carmen asks as she slowly starts to piece things together. Viewers can see the recognition start to dawn in Carmen’s eyes, and the moment is incredibly touching. The moment when Carmen finally recognizes her daughter has everyone in tears!

“Dementia can be beautiful,” MJ wrote alongside the video. “Yesterday I took my mother for a ride to the beach. Taking her out of her element (my home, where she lives) can be confusing for her. Within the confusion there can be such beauty and sweet little surprises. I simply adore her.”

“People often forget the wisdom and beauty that people who are aging bring to this world,” she continued. “When we slow down long enough to take the time to spend with them it not only fills their heart, it can cause ours to overflow with love.”

Check out the video for yourself below!