I lost my father, Hector to Alzheimer’s this year.

On April 7, our heartbreaking journey came to an end and he entered eternal life where his body and mind were made whole again. 

The last few months have been an emotional rollercoaster – filled with sadness, relief, guilt, anger and grief. The reality is that our family’s grief and loss began years ago when Dad was first diagnosed.  He slipped away a little at a time and although I felt I would be ready for him to finally be at peace, it’s still hard.  It’s also hard not to focus on the last few years, but I don’t want his life to be defined by this horrible disease. He had so many wonderful and memorable years as a dad, husband, grandfather, son, and brother, and that will be his legacy.  

This picture was taken less than 2 weeks before he died.  Each visit I tried to prepare myself for all of the ‘last’ moments, but I didn’t know this would be the one when he hugged me and told me he loved me for the last time.  I’m so thankful he never forgot how to smile, he never forgot how to laugh, and that deep inside he never forgot how much I love him.

This is the first of many years I will walk in Dad’s memory in addition to the memory of his sister, Angie and brother, Albert, who our family also lost to Alzheimer’s.  I am committed to continue raising funds for Alzheimer’s Association and I need your support.

We believe there is strength in numbers so James and I pledge to match every dollar you donate. Let’s keep fighting the fight for all the families who are, have been, or will be affected by this disease.  Let’s fight for the first survivor! 

Thank you as always for your consideration and generosity.