I lost my dad, my hero, February 28th, 2016.

I was his fulltime caregiver, and I was holding him and telling him how much I love him as he took his last breath, in our home, as he had wanted.

I was able to do so by the Grace of God, the people God placed in our lives, and with the help of my local Alzheimer's chapter.

I miss him so much, but I know he's happy I am continuing to educate and help fight Alz.

In addition to my dad, Alz has taken my uncle and one aunt. I currently have two aunts living with Alzheimer's.

I have friends who have lost their loved one and others who are currently caregivers/care partners.

Sadly, as this is a TERMINAL DISEASE AND DIAGNOSIS, these numbers will grow, for all of us, until there is a cure.

I WILL CONTINUE TO FIGHT FOR A CURE!!

Dad, uncle Chuck, and aunt Jerri are free from this hateful disease that robs millions of their lives each year. There is NO CURE at this time.

I was fortunate to tour the Alzheimers Association in Chicago three years ago. They did an interview with me and my friend I met from ALZ connect.org. The article is in the Summer issue. It was so amazing to stand in the call center and know that I had called there myself and received support, guidance, and help when I needed it. I was able to put faces to some names that I had seen or heard about. It was simply a very special blessing!

This is my 8th  year walking, and 6th year serving on the local committee and also volunteering. Annually I go to Springfield with the Alzheimer's Association and speak to our elected officials to make sure they keep Alzheimer's in the forefront and see the faces of Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

The money raised stays mostly in local chapter. 77% of that goes towards patients and their caregivers.

My dad and I both benefitted from our local St. Louis Chapter. Along with the 24/7 hotline, they are a great place for resources. They provided respite care and purchased a medical bracelet for my dad.

The support and resources are SO important to every person living with Alz and their caregivers.

I am 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.

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

I need your support to do my part! Please make a donation to help the Alzheimer's Association advance research into methods of treatment, prevention, 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.

Thank you for joining the movement!

The END of Alzheimer's starts with YOU!