There's a reason I keep saying was even though my Poppop is still here. His battle with Alzheimer's has caused me to mourn him every single day because the Poppop I once knew is gone, along with a majority of the memories we had together.

I go visit him at least once a week. We still try to find him his favorite snacks even though he doesn't have teeth to eat them with, drinks he has always loved, and sports gear to try and trigger a glimmer of who he was... but my Poppop is gone. Every time we visit, no matter how long we stay, he forgets we were ever there 10 minutes after we've left. So why do we still visit when it's so hard on us and he doesn't remember? Aside from our love for him.... what's left of him is a person who needs help and deserves support, love, and care even he only remembers it for a moment.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read a glimpse of mine and my Poppop's story. Alzheimer's is truly so so tough on the loved ones of those who are affected, and if you ever need to vent or have someone listen to yours or your loved ones stories, I'm a phone call or a coffee date away.

Please consider making a donation, joining my walk team, or creating your own to raise money for this cause. Together, we can #EndAlz!