Friends,

About three years ago I left a job where I had been for over 10 years, to come to work at the Alzheimer's Association - and although I had no personal close connection to the disease then, I certainly do now. I am connected by the amazing runners who join the marathon team I manage.  I am connected by my amazing colleagues who come to work every day to fight this horrible disease. I am connected by my friends, who share that they too love someone or lost someone to ALZ. 

To say they've all inspired me is an understatement. I need to do more  - I need to get back out there and make my miles matter, and do MY PART in the race to END ALZ. 

On my 2nd day at the Alzheimer's Association, I got a call from Jeff Dryfhout - he had run the marathon as a member of AlZ Stars but wanted to do more - as his mother, Jan has been diagnosed with early on-set Alzheimer's disease as well as other members of his family.  The "Run Across Illinois" was born. It's a 158 mile relay from the Mississippi River to the Indiana border. For the past 2 years, Jeremy and I have driven out and supported the runners - this year - we will be lacing up the shoes and joining them!   

Participating in this relay together - which runs along the cornfields and right through Jeremy's hometown  - will surely be a memory we'll cherish forever. Right? Well, I can't guarantee that. See, this disease TAKES your memories.  Alzheimer's disease has no cure. It can't be slowed - or stopped. YET. 

Currently, more than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's and that number is expected to grow to as many as 16 million by 2050. Our future is at risk unless we can find a way to change the course of this disease.

We need your support to do our part!  Our goal is BIG - because this problem is HUGE.

PLEASE make a donation to help the Alzheimer's Association advance research to discover methods of prevention, treatment and ultimately, a cure for Alzheimer’s. For the millions already affected by the disease, the Association offers care, education, support and resources in communities nationwide. If YOU are struggling with a loved one, please reach out to me - We offer so many amazing resources. You aren't alone. People care. I CARE. 

Thank you in advance for your generosity – I want to do MY PART - but, I ask for your help ... TOGETHER, we can END ALZ. 

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