Imagine you are 82 years old driving to your Monday night bowling league in northern Indiana, as you have for over 40 years.  But instead of arriving at the bowling alley, you end up driving all over Indiana for 30 plus hours.  Now imagine you are the worried spouse, children and grandchildren of this bowler.

That was my Dad, George in 2008 with my mom, myself, my husband, my siblings, grandchildren and friends frantically praying that he would be found safe and healthy. Thankfully, he was found. He was driving the wrong way on US 40 outside of Terre Haute around 1 am. A police officer was able to safely veer him off the road and no one was harmed. He lost his battle with Alzheimer’s  just 5 years later in 2013. Then my mom’s health declined from dementia passing away 8 years later in 2021. 

This is why I volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association. To work towards a world where Alzheimer’s and other dementias will no longer steal our loved ones memories and ability to function.  My husband and I have noted 3 areas that we can help that we have nicknamed “AVE”.  As in the “avenue” to help others with their journey. A is for Advocate, V is for Volunteer, E for Educate.

1) I advocate for public policies that increase funding for critical research;          insurance coverage for breakthrough treatment; and support for patients and caregivers by reaching out to policymakers to make Alzheimer’s a national priority. 

2) I volunteer by being Captain for Team George since 2009, and now serving as co-chair of the Community Engagement Committee for the 2023 Indianapolis Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

3) I educate byspreading awareness of the 24/7 support and vast resources & programs that the Alzheimer’s Association offers by sharing on social media and word of mouth.

We can't win this fight against Alzheimer's without your help!  You can participate in any of the ways above or by joining our Team George, you can start your own team, you can make a donation and/or most of all, please keep all of those battling Alzheimer's their caregivers in your prayers!

Thank you,

Sandy deCastro