The day that dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease was one of the hardest days of my life.  Caring for my dad was an honor.  He was the best dad ever!  But, our journey with Alzheimer's was not easy.  I'm thankful I had support from friends, family and the Alzheimer's Association.

With the help of the Alzheimer’s Association we joined a support group and I attended caregiver education seminars.  We lost my Mom to a long battle with Leukemia 6 months after my Dad’s diagnosis, so my brother and I became Dad’s caregivers.  Caring for Dad was full of hard moments and difficult decisions.  Taking Dad’s car keys away, seeing him lose the ability to play golf, watching him struggle to take a shower and get dressed, moving him into an Alzheimer’s Care Center where he was the youngest resident, seeing him forget how to walk, and finally making tough decisions toward the end of his life are just a few of the moments that will stick with me forever.

Millions of Americans are having this same difficult experience with Alzheimer’s disease.  It is my personal mission to make sure that we find a treatment or cure.  Your support of this worthwhile cause is so appreciated. 

In February of 2015 I started The Oasis- AnEarly/Mid Stage Alzheimer's Group.  Every Thursday we have 30 people who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia and 30 volunteers meet for a 4 hour period of fun, exercise, food and fellowship. I can't begin to tell you the impact this group has had on my life.  Being with this group has given me even more motivation to fight for these families and their loved ones. 

I walk this year not only in memory of my Dad, but also in honor of those families currently suffering with this disease. 

I thank God for all the support we received from family, friends and the Alzheimer's Association.  The Alzheimer's Association provides crucial support and education to families currently dealing with this disease.  

They are the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research.  Their mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.  

Any form of support is appreciated.  I would love to have you at the walk, but completely understand that we all have busy schedules.  Your donations to this worthy cause are welcome even if you cannot attend.  

I know many of you have experienced this disease in your family and some have experienced this disease first hand.  Let’s do something about it!!  I want to see a world without Alzheimer’s disease!
 
Sincerely, 
Bronwen Hyden Zilmer