My sister Ruthie, my wife Kathy and I are again walking to help reclaim the future for millions. By participating in the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's®, I'm committed to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research, care and support. It doesn't have to be a gift of money as all the affected individuals and their families need your prayers as well - if not more!

Kathy and I continue to see how families are effected by Alzheimers as Kathy and I are  leading an ALZ Caregiver Support Group on the campus of La Loma Village.

As many of you know, this is all very personal to me as my mother IRENE ERMELING was in "lock down" dementia care facility and I have seen what this curse of a disease did to her and to her fellow residents. My mom succumbed to the disease on May 6, 2015. I am also deeply concerned as there is evidence that dementia is affected by heredity. This directly affects me, my brother, my sister, my sons, my nephews, and  my grandchildren. I am now a member of the Alzheimers Register and have participated in several "test programs" in the effort to find out more about how this dreaded disease affects the body can be prevented.

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.

I need your support - no they need your support! Please make a donation to help the Alzheimer's Association advance research into methods of treatment, prevention and, ultimately, a cure for Alzheimer's. This can be done on line or you can mail a check to the Alzheimer's Association. Again - if you cannot give a financial gift - please give the gift of prayer. Purple is the national color for Alzheimers. Any time you see purple clothing - stop for a moment and offer up a prayer for the families dealing with Alzheimers.

For the millions already affected by the disease, the Association offers care, education, support and resources in communities nationwide.

Thank you for joining the movement! The end of Alzheimer's disease starts with us - you and me!.

Pastor Vern Ermeling