I am one of the 13,000 in Marion County living with Alzheimer's. When I began showing signs of the disease, family and friends brushed it aside as a normal part of aging. It took several years before I was finally diagnosed in 2018. If my journey shows one thing, it is that as a community, we must take action to make Marion County more dementia friendly.

On a personal level, everyone, no matter your age, should learn the signs of Alzheimer's and know how to recognize it. If you see something, say something and see your primary care doctor immediately. Getting an early diagnosis means time to plan, access clinical trials and the opportunity to make lifestyle changes to improve quality of life.

At a community level, we must press our elected leaders to prioritize services that support people like me and our precious caregivers. As much as we need support and understanding, so do those caring for us. The State of Florida has been a leader in senior care but we have so much farther to go.

I invite you to join me for a community day of action at the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's Ocala event, Saturday, November 5 at the World Equestrian Center. Together, we will walk to raise awareness of this disease and funds for critical research and local services. If we are to make an impact in Marion County and across Florida, it must start with community action.

Thank you!