My grandmother lived with Alzheimer's for many years, and this personal experience pulled my father (and me) toward a professional career helping other families navigate their care journey. As a Southern woman, she took pride in her cooking. As the disease progressed, she lost her ability to cook, once causing a kitchen fire.
According to my aunt, the most difficult part of Mama's diagnosis was watching her change from a capable, independent person to someone who required help with normal activities like dressing. She could remember events of the distant past but had no recollection of what she ate for breakfast.
She loved to stay in touch with family members by phone, especially my dad. Unfortunately, Alzheimer's caused her to be unable to make those precious phone calls.
And one night, my aunt received a phone call from a neighbor saying that Mama had woken up, got dressed, grabbed her purse and cane, and wandered to her house in the middle of the night.
Eventually, our family contacted a home care agency that sent a wonderful aide named Patty. She gave Mama excellent care and would write notes about her daily. It gave our family peace of mind to know she was being so well cared for when we could not be there.
Families facing Alzheimer’s and all other dementia need us now more than ever — and with your help, we can be there for them. Please consider donating to this wonderful causes, helping to provide resources, support and guidance to families in need. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease.
My Progress
Thank you for helping advance Alzheimer's support, care and research.
1480
I have raised
500
My Goal
My Achievements
Self-Donor
Fundraiser
Top Team
Top Fundraiser
T-shirt
Champion
Grand Champion
Storyteller