Friends:

Thank you all who have contributed in the past to my fundraising efforts on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association.  I am raising funds again this year.

Sadly, I must share that on August 10, 2024, Dad peacefully passed away.   Dad had been battling Alzheimer’s since 2019.   Dad finally succumbed to the effects and progression of this merciless disease.  My little dog Marley and I were by Dad’s side as he slipped away.  My mother, brother and nephew were nearby.   Mom and Dad had been married for 69 years at time.

The wonderful care provided by Beacon Hospice made Dad’s transition to the afterlife peaceful.  For that I am forever grateful.

As many of you known, In December, 2019, both of my parents were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.  It has been a long painful journey since then.   Mom is still with us, but recently went into hospice care. 

I have been fortunate to have had my parents in my life for such a long time but saddened that Alzheimer’s deteriorated their final years.  Dad remained positive until the end, although he lost the ability to speak and was confined to a wheel chair.  Mom remains cheerful, but required assistance with all activities.  

Mom and Dad went into Assisted Living in August 2022.  Sadly, both have declined since that time.  Dad had a stint in the hospital. . .5 days in the hallway of the ER as part of it and a hip replacement operation too.  When Dad was discharged, he was a different person.  He had lost 25 pounds,  completely confused and confined to a wheel chair.  Changes in 2 short weeks.  He could no longer walk, feed or dress himself.  The family was broken hearted.

For these reasons, I am determined to go the distance for all those affected by Alzheimer’s. I am inspired by the strength of the more than 6 million Americans living with this disease.   My heart breaks for the  11 million family members and friends who provide them with care. I am also inspired by science.

Right now, there is no shortage of ideas in Alzheimer’s research — only dollars.  To raise funds, I am participating on the Ride to End ALZ, a fully-supported, one day fundraising event.  I plan to cycle 100 miles.  Every dollar raised supports the Alzheimer’s Association’s efforts to discover methods of treatment and prevention for Alzheimer’s disease.

With each mile I ride, I am raising funds to advance research toward the first survivor of Alzheimer’s. Thank you for supporting this important cause.   Please reach out to me if you are going through the Alzheimer's journey with a loved one.  Sometimes, I just need to share the journey.   Fondly, Lynn