Alzheimer’s isn’t stopping and neither are we. 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 — funds that allow the Alzheimer’s Association to provide 24/7 care and support while accelerating critical research.

Bubby was a patriarch of our small township.  He and his family owned the corner store and gas station for over 60 years.  He sold candy for a penny and all the advice and stories were free.  His friends would stop by and they'd get in a good card game while the traffic was low.  He helped everyone who needed it.  If you needed to put some gas in your tank until the next paycheck, he helped you out.  He was a fireman most of his adult life and would not think twice about risking his life for another.  He was president of our local little league and coached his daughters in softball.  He became a security guard at an elementary school after he retried, and man did those kids love him!  He was a Steelers Season ticket holder and greatest fan I knew!  

And he suffered from Alzheimer's disease.  Alzheimer's affects not only the person who is diagnosed, but every single person that loves them as well.   They have to ride the world's biggest, fastest, scariest, emotional roller coaster every day.   I was fortunate enough that to his dying day, Bubby, knew who me and my children where.  My mother would tell me how much my children made him happy when they came to visit.  They'd help feed him, eat his food (LOL), play cards, watch wheel of fortune with him and just be in the moment with him.    I was one of the lucky ones, he never really forgot who I was or how much I loved him, and I will be forever grateful for that.  

But he did forget others, people who loved him unconditionally... People who took care of him, were there in a moments notice and had to make all the hard decisions.   It's those people that my heart goes out to, the caregivers.  The family members who must look into the eyes of their hero, only to see a dark stare.... Despite that, they remember the good times for both of them, they will find them when they feel lost, they will feed them, dry their tears, carry them, comfort them, and not become angry when their name is forgotten.  They will be by their side for eternity.  That is strength and love at its finest.   It is the only time you have to feel the loss of a loved one TWICE, once when they forget who you are and then all over again when they pass.

Families facing Alzheimer’s and all other dementia need us now more than ever — and with your help, we can be there for them. Please make a donation or register as a participant and start your own fundraising. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease. 

Thank you!