I walk in memory of those I love, those I’ve lost and those I’ve cared for who are still living with dementia. This journey began when we lost my Dad, the late, great  Ronald H. Paquette. His Mom, Grandma Helga, and Dad’s younger brother, Cliff, both passed too after battling dementia. Sadly, in 2022, my beautiful cousin, Robin, lost her battle to early onset Alzheimer’s a few days before her 61st birthday. This December, my Mom’s life long friend, Lilian Fernandez, passed from Alzheimer’s. There are others that are still fighting under the loving care of relatives or caregivers  

Each of us knows the daily challenges and struggles that are faced by those affected including the impact this disease has on the loved ones and caregivers. We lost both my dad and uncle to cancer; however, they both lived with the affects of vascular dementia for many years before passing away in 2013 and 2021 respectively. This disease is cruel and devastating as we loose those we love long before they actually pass. It’s frightening and confusing for our loved ones. Please help us break the stigma of  this progressive brain disease. I know it’s not easy - there is a lot of denial, embarrassment and frustration. Our loved ones are locked inside their own minds and we have to love and support them. 

We miss the man who was the loving Husband of our Mom, our Dad, Grandpa, Great Grandpa, Uncle, Cousin, Son to Helga and Ray, Big Brother to Cliff, Friend to many, Elder in his congregation, former Firefighter and Captain of Uniontown Fire Company, member of Local 52 IATSE, business owner or Ron Paquette & Sons Carpenters, and so much more  We will never forget you!, Dad! And I will honor Grandma’s and Cliff’s memories forever too  

Currently, more than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's and that number is expected to grow to as many as 16 million by 2050. Our future is at risk unless we can find a way to change the course of this disease. Please make a donation to advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association. Every little bit helps.

On behalf of my family, thank you for joining us in the fight against Alzheimer's! Together, our collective work can lead to the first survivor of this devastating disease.#endalz