I just looked at my page I updated last year at this time and can't believe how fast this past year has gone. Exactly 1 year ago we moved our mom back to Santa Cruz and within 3 weeks she passed due to complications from Dementia. I miss my mom so much, her daily phone calls and just knowing I could reach out whenever I needed too. She was loving, funny and very smart. I never would have thought I would have 2 parents effected with Dementia and the pain of watching them both suffer was unbearable. It is so important for me to continue raising awareness both to honor my mom and dad and to help others and hopefully find a cure. 
This disease is devastating and PERSONAL to me and my family. My mom has been suffering with Dementia and as we navigate the daily tasks of living with the disease we also struggle with knowing we are slowly loosing our beloved mom, wife, friend. We have been through so many life changes with my mom and her loving husband Anthony Dawson over the past year and recently made the decision to move our mom back to Santa Cruz for long term care and to sell her beloved home in Henderson Nevada. Every step of this disease affects everyone profoundly . I / we are in the eye of the storm as they say, just trying to live in the moment and solve daily challenges as they come. My heart is broken as I write this news about my mom. 

I am walking again this year in the 2023 Santa Cruz Walk to End Alzheimer’s event being held on September 23, 2023. I have spent the past 11 years walking, raising awareness, advocating and raising money in our hope to one day have a cure in fighting  Alzheimer’s Disease. In the meantime all the money we raise through our event helps with outreach, support, education and fund our 24 hour National Hotline. Alzheimer’s Disease profoundly changed my life and the life of my family as I know it does with so many families. The disease took my dad away from everyone he loved, his passions, his work, he lost himself and in the end we had a "long goodbye." Watching a loved one disappear and not recognize you is devastating, but throughout our journey I saw glimpses of my dad, the twinkle in his eye and his funny little smirk. I treasure those moments. 

I walk for My Community, my family, and all of those dealing with the devastating challenges brought on by Dementia and Alzheimer’s. Any amount you are able to donate to our Santa Cruz Walk is so very much appreciated. 

Thank you so much for your love, friendship and support over the years. I am walking for my Dad Charles J. Grebmeier,  my Mom Barbara Grebmeier Dawson, Peggy Merrell, Toni Merrell, Bob Rader and everyone dealing with Alzheimer’s. My team Cure be Found is honored to have so many wonderful team members who are working tirelessly to fundraise, we were the top team in Santa Cruz again last year and with your help we hope to be again. 

Thank you,

Julie Grebmeier (Merrell)