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.

Sadly, Alzheimer's has effected my family in more ways that one could imagine. I lost my Grandfather/ Woodie McLain to Alzheimer's in 1993. In 2022 my Uncle/ Earl McLain passed away to many health complications but Alzheimer's was a contributing factor. In 2022, my Uncle/ Gene McLain was placed in a Memory Care for the special care needed due to Alzheimer's. In 2017, my Mother/ Ruth McLain was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. It was just the small things of forgetting that led us to seek medical attention and from there that is when the diagnosis came. In 2020, the symptoms were more noticeable and that's when it was clear that I was moving her in with me for more care. It wasn't until 2022 that the symptoms were more defined and the decline was more rapid than expected. In August of 2023, the hard decision was made that it was time for Assisted Living. Due to the decline, my mother deserved and needed more care than I could offer her living at home with me. Thankfully, I found Orchard Park of Kyle. They have been so welcoming and loving that during this transition, I have found peace knowing my mother is in the best of hands. 

I first started walking in Ventura, CA in 2010 for the Walk To End Alzheimer's. For six years I walked proudly in honor of my Grandfather. After a seven year hiatus, I will start the walk again and raise funds to help end this cruel disease.

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 .... Charissa