It's been a tough journey caring for my mom for 5 years.  There were times when she was so much fun our laughing together hurt my cheeks.  Then as the disease progressed it became very sad and difficult.  I lost my beautiful mother on November 14, 2023 to Alzheimer's.  I have a huge hole in my heart.  It is My mission to advocate for Alzheimer's with the hope that one day there will be a survivor.  What's even more heartbreaking is that not only was My mother taken from this life by the disease but my brother Bobby Boyd (59) was diagnosed with Frontal Lobe Dementia/ Alzheimer's at the age of 57.  Frontal Lobe Dementia is very different from my mothers.  Bobby has lost the ability to communicate. Bobby has good days and bad.  This has to be the most horrific disease I have witnessed.  Until, I was personally affected by Alzheimer's, I was unaware that 6.7 Million Americans are living with Alzheimer's. 1 in 3 seniors dies with Alzheimer's or another dementia.  The lifetime risk for Alzheimer's at age 45 is 1 in 5 for women and 1 in 10 for men. New studies puts annual Alzheimer's Deaths on par with Cancer. I am extemely fortunate to still have my brother in my life, as well as, my 3 children; Luke, Joel and Victoria and my husband Ritch.  I am completely heartbroken that I no longer have my mom by my side.  This disease is extremely complicated.  There are a variety of levels when facing a loved one with Alzheimer's, no two people have the same exact affects and every day I learn something new.  This walk is a beautiful way for people to come together share in their pain yet take time to smile and join together with hopes of one day finding a cure.  Over the past 3 years the generosity and kindness given towards my fundraiser has been extraordinary; I am so very grateful to all of you who have supported me and my team in this fight to end Alzheimer's.

Stay safe and well everyone and embrace the people you love; remind each other how precious each day is with them. Love and hugs.;-) 

Thank you all for your support.

Susie