Why I walk....simple, my Mom! My Mom, Merry Lunde, was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's back in 2017 at the age of 62. She lost her battle on September 24, 2020. The past few years have been an incredibly tough journey. I walk for my Mom but I also walk for my family and the people who have helped us care for her throughout the years. And for those we have simply surrounded us to show support. For me the journey of Alzheimer's has brought on so many different stages of grief. This disease is something I wish no one would ever have to experience. It is a journey that truly has no guidebook but thankfully the Alzheimer's Organization and this walk have showed me a system of support. I miss my Mom, her voice, her laughter, her smile, and so much more.
I never want Alzheimer's to define who my Mom was. She was my best friend and the strongest person I knew. My Mom lived by the word "Hope" so that is what I try to live my life by as well. Every time I lose a little hope, I think about her and how I must keep going. She is and will always be my biggest inspiration.
I'm leading the way to Alzheimer's first survivor by participating in the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's®. Currently, more than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's and that number is expected to grow to as many as 16 million by 2050. Our future is at risk unless we can find a way to change the course of this disease.
Together, we can end Alzheimer's disease. Please make a donation to advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association.
Thank you for joining the fight against Alzheimer's!
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