I am walking in memory of my parents Earl & Patricia Eifert Warner who lived with this disease both as a patient and a caregiver. I also walk in memory of my friend Karen Stashak who was always there and supported me in this endeavor and in memory of my friends Len and Ed and their families.
In 2001 my Mom passed away suddenly, and Dad passed away 16 months earlier with a much slower good bye. If you think your loved one doesn't know something is wrong, believe me they do. Dad was not much older than I am now when he began having symptoms that something was wrong. My parents sold their winter home, Mom began helping him pay the bills, and they were quietly preparing.
Dad did not want to go to the Doctor saying "I know what I have and he cannot help me." Dad was right, the Doctor told us he suspected Alzheimer's and Mom, Dad and I cried and I promised we would get thru it together along with my brother and sister-in-law. There was little known about Alzheimer's in 1995 and there was not even medication on the market yet. Approximately four years later Dad died in my arms from complications due to this disease.
Much progress has been made since 1995 thanks to research, increase in awareness and funding. In 2019 NYS committed two million dollars for Alzheimers' grants and programs. Corporations such as Edward Jones Financial Services have joined the fight. Edward Jones is a Corporate sponsor for The Walk to End Alzheimer's and over the past several years have committed over TEN MILLION DOLLARS to the Association. I am very proud of my husband John who is not only my biggest supporter but is also a retired Edward Jones financial adviser.
Being a caregiver for many years changed our lifestyle, what was I to do now? A friend, Susan Riggi, introduced me to the Alzheimer's Association and I am now in my 23rd year as a volunteer. Belonging to several committees, past member of Board of Directors, Support Facilitator, in home respite care volunteer, attending conferences, advocacy and fundraising events has given me a great appreciation for the Alzheimer's Association, their dedicated employees, and the wonderful work they do. By participating in the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s I'm committed to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research, care and support.
One evening I was tying Dad's shoes so we could go for a ride. He said, " I sure hope you have someone to tie your shoes someday". In that instant my future became very scary. The Alzheimer's Association's vision is A WORLD WITHOUT ALZHEIMERS. My personal vision is to not need help tying my shoes..........
I need your support to do my part! Please consider making a donation or volunteer your time to help the Alzheimer's Association advance research into prevention, treatments and a cure for Alzheimer's. For the millions already affected by the disease, the Association offers care, education, support and resources in communities nationwide.
My Progress
Thank you for helping advance Alzheimer's support, care and research.
100
I have raised
500
My Goal
My Achievements
Self-Donor
Top Team
T-shirt
Storyteller
Mobile Master
Walk Committee Member