Back in September of 2016 when my dad told me that he thought something was wrong with mom and referred to her inability to remember things, I believe “something’s not right with your mom” were his words, I had no idea how our lives were going to change. 

Two weeks after that conversation dad would  be hospitalized and pass away a few days later, and our road with Alzheimer’s began with mom. She went from a realtor that used her iPhone every minute of the day to text or email clients to not being able to use a cell phone at all in less than two years. She can barely use a landline at this point. She moved into Magnolia Springs Assisted Living in 2018 and into the memory care unit in March of this year, still at Magnolia Springs. 

Her memory continues to deteriorate and her confusion continues to increase. She still knows most people and enjoys visits in the moment but has no real recollection once the visit is over. 

For those of you that know mom, she gives the best hugs. For those  that don’t know Mom, she was the life of every party and the light in every room. She never met a stranger and regardless if you just met her or if you have known her for years, you are going to get one of those hugs. 

I tell this story not to embarrass mom but to maybe give a tiny glimpse into the speed of this disease. Some may have a faster progression, some may have slower. No matter what the timeline is, it is devastating and heartbreaking. 

Alzheimer’s isn’t stopping and neither are we. By participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, I’m raising funds and awareness to advance the fight against this disease — funds that allow the Alzheimer’s Association® to provide 24/7 care and support while accelerating critical research.

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 make a donation or register as a participant and start your own fundraising. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease.

The walk is scheduled for Saturday September 25th at Whitaker Ballpark. Register to walk with us, make a donation or BOTH. 

NO MATTER HOW SMALL THE DONATION, EVERY DOLLAR COUNTS!!! 

Thank you!