Why I Ride:
Several years ago mom was diagnosed with dementia, a form of Alzheimers. At first it was kind of like when any of us have a forgetful day. Since COVID restrictions were lifted I’ve been visiting mom and dad in Waunakee monthly, and her memory has gotten progressively worse. It can be hard when you visit your own mom doesn't recognize you. When reminded she seems to remember, yet it's not uncommon for her to forget an hour later. I was talking to Mom and Dad on the phone recently and I heard my mom laugh at something Dad said; THAT'S my mom. While her mind is deteriorating, she's still Mom and she'll always be the kind, loving person who raised me.
Mom’s memory has gotten progressively worse over the past couple years, both her short-term and long-term memory. I give dad A LOT of credit. It’s impacted him too, as mom used to run everything in their retirement, from meals to travel to doctor appointments. He’s picked up the ball and handles everything, now. I’m blessed to have two loving parents living into their 80’s with few to no physical health issues. I want to do something in honor of my parents.
To honor mom’s fight with Dementia and dad’s tireless care for her, I’m fundraising for the Alzheimer’s Association. They do for Alzheimer's and Dementia what the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society does for blood cancer – they fund research into better treatments and hopefully cures for Alzheimer's and Dementia. My goal is to raise $5,000 to help fund research. In addition to fundraising, I’ll be training for an 80 mile bike ride in Minnesota – The Ride to end ALZ. It’ll feel good to put miles in the saddle.
THANK YOU so much for your support! Together we can support the Alzheimer Society's mission of finding better treatments for Alzheimer's and Dementia.
Cheer Me On!