My grandmother has been my best friend for as long as I can remember. As a kid, I enjoyed spending time with her, whether we were doing puzzles, reading books, or sitting outside enjoying the peace on the farm. I absolutely loved when I would be playing basketball outside and I would hear her call my name and tell me it was “break time.” I would walk up the hill and have a snack with her and grandad and enjoy sitting in the swing just talking to them. 

As I got older, I would come back to Hancock County just to get that feeling of home I felt when I spent time with her. 

Even now, with me being 30 and her being 81, she is still one of my favorite people in the world. 

However, Alzheimer’s has taken a lot from our relationship. She has always continued to recognize who I am, but not some other family members. She doesn’t remember if it’s been a day or a week since she’s seen me last. Our conversations don’t make much sense. I don’t get those weekly phone calls saying she misses me. I don’t receive that grandmotherly advice like I used to. My daughter doesn’t get to sit outside with her and learn the sounds different birds make. She doesn’t get to giggle with her while they work a puzzle. That’s what Alzheimer’s has taken from me. 

It’s hard seeing the smartest, most stubborn, independent woman I know not resemble herself. However I choose to spend as much time with her as I can and help take care of her in any way I can. Because although she might not remember the time we spend together or make new memories, I do. And even though she may not seem like it at times, she’s still my amazing grandmother and I love her more than she knows. 

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. 

Please consider making a donation to this cause that is so close to my heart. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s Disease. 

Thank you! 

Jayden Jones