This year, as I lace up my shoes for the 10th time to #END ALZ, I'm filled with both determination and nostalgia.  I started this journey when I was just 10 years old, not fully grasping the profound impact Alzheimer's would have on my life and my family.  My grandpa, Frank Luporini, bravely battled this relentless disease until January 2017.  Alzheimer's didn't just steal his memories -- it stole our time with him, altering every aspect of our family dynamics.  Watching someone so dear to me slowly lose his sense of self was heartbreaking.  The disease made him forget the people he loved and the simple joys he once cherished.  For the past decade, I've channeled my grief and love into this cause, striving to honor his memory and support others facing similar struggles.  There is still no cure for Alzheimer's, which is both maddening and deeply motivating.  Though it is too late for my grandpa, I'm hopeful that the funds we raise will drive research forward and bring us closer to a cure.  With your support, I believe that we can hit our ambitious $5,000 goal and make a real difference.  Thank you for joining me in this fight.

 Kayleigh

#My_Grandpa_is_Awesome_Sauce

PLEASE go hug a loved one and tell them how much you care about them, while they still remember you!