My name is Katie Rowe - I supervise Truewood Bradenton's Garden House, a memory care unit.

For as long as I can remember, I've been passionate about Alzheimers and dementia research. Some of my earliest and fondest memories in FL were spent with my Granny. In December of 2010, after a long fight with dementia, she passed away.

In more recent years, my family has continued to be impacted by Alzheimer's and dementia. My Grandpa was diagnosed a few years ago. His wife is his primary care taker. She is one of over sixteen million Americans who provide unpaid care for someone living with dementia.

Last year my mother got married, and Memaw joined our family. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer's shortly after we met. She is so full of love and light. She continues to fight the disease.

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 \u2014 funds that allow the Alzheimer's Association to provide 24/7 care and support while accelerating critical research. This cause is very personal to me, and I hope you'll support me in fighting this battle.