I walk for many reasons.  

What first got me involved was the diagnosis of my Grandma Arnold (Anna Gene).  Watching what it did to her life so mercilessly was one of the hardest things I have gone through in my life.  Watching her lose her ability to recognize her home, her family, and eventually the ability to speak and eat, was devastating.  Not long after Alzheimer’s claimed her life, my other Grandma (Grandma Clegg) was diagnosed as well.  I thought it might be easier this time since I knew what to expect.  I was already aware that my grandmother would just be a shell of herself, that she would think she was in another person’s home, or that one day she would only recognize my face, that maybe I was a close friend from the past.  Only I was completely mistaken.  It doesn’t get easier.  It is never easy to watch the core of who someone is be taken away.  To watch memories you share slip away, or see the fear in someone’s eyes when they are searching for the right answer, or even to place a family members face.  

I also walk for family:

I have recently found out that a couple close family members of mine carry 2 of the genes linked to Alzheimers.  I walk for them, as well as my nieces and daughters, so they never have to watch what I did, or go through it themselves.  

In addition, I walk for my nephew ZoZo with Downs Syndrome.  In learning more about Down Syndrome through his mother, I was informed that many individuals born with the extra chromosome will develop the disease.  So I walk for him and the amazing, supportive community he has introduced me to.  

I believe with the money we raise year after year, this will no longer be a worry for my family, or anyone else.  I truly believe that with the funds we WILL find the FIRST SURVIVOR!!  So join me in the fight to help reclaim the future for millions. By participating in the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's, I'm committed to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer research, care and support.

Currently, an estimated 5.8 million Americans have Alzheimer's and that number is expected to grow to as many as 14 million by 2050. Our future is at risk unless we can find a way to change the course of this disease.  It is a crisis! 
 
I need your support to do my part! Please make a donation to help the Alzheimer's Association advance research into prevention, treatments and a cure for Alzheimer's. For the millions already affected by the disease, the Association offers care, education, support and resources in communities nationwide.
 
Thank you for joining our movement! The end of Alzheimer's disease starts here.