This year I am walking for my dad. NO, he does not have Alzheimer's disease, but he does have heart disease. When I was a child, my dad told me he would drop dead at age 50 from a heart attack because that's what men in his family did.  His grandfather did.  His father did and he expected to.  Happily he did not drop dead at age 50.  But, he has had two heart attacks and LIVED because of advancements in science and treatments for heart disease.  

My father is now 83 years young.  It truly is a miracle and I am grateful for the research that helped my father and millions of people like him live with heart disease. But now, he is at even greater risk for getting Alzheimer's disease because of his age and because he has heart disease.  I feel a real urgency to find additional and better treatments for dementia for people like my father.  I know that we can all reduce our risk of getting these diseases. We just need more research, to give us all more time.  

For the first time in my career, I can say there are treatments available. We are making great progress.  Unfortunately, these treatments are not available to everyone.  We need to change that.  The money we raise through the Walk not only advances research for a cure, but makes sure that diagnosis and treatment is available to all.  The funds raised ensure that everyone has access to resources to help them live with Alzheimer's disease and create more memories with their loved ones.   

Moments Matter- and I am thankful for the 33 years of extra moments with my father and know that together we can give moments like that to all those impacted by dementia.  

So please, help me change the world for all who are living with or at risk for Alzheimer's disease. The end of Alzheimer's starts with all of us! Take that first step and make a donation today and help me #End Alzheimer's disease.  

Thank you!

Susan Parriott