Alzheimer’s and dementia are not unfamiliar to my family. When I was young, my Grandma Zonna had dementia and it had started progressing quicker as time went on. At the time I did not know what that was, but I knew she had “sundowners” which made the middle of the day best to visit her. When she had to be admitted, she had started not being able to recognize most of my family. I was the only person she could recognize consistently towards the end. 

Her fading memory thankfully did not impede her ability to play cards which was one of her favorite activities. Grandma Zonna remains one of my favorite euchre partners to this day. One year I was told we were not allowed to partner together anymore since we beat everyone at the New Years Eve party. We spent almost every day with her on the farm and one of her favorite things was to host all the holidays. I still remember her home-made butterscotch pie. She was a huge part of my childhood and I still miss her. 

My Great Aunt Eileen had not only Parkinson’s but also dementia. She was a nun and a sister of the Immaculate Heart of Mary organization. My earliest memory of her was visiting her vineyard in Michigan. We would runaround as kids and ask her a million questions. Due to her love of learning and huge proponent of any education opportunities she was a huge influence on my life. Great Aunt Eileen was the one that helped get me interested in literature and encouraged my voracious appetite when it came to reading. 

When she had to move into the Motherhouse we visited as frequently as we could. It was so hard seeing someone I knew as a vibrant individual who was so witty with a wry sense of humor, become this cheerful but childlike individual. It was something expected to see.

My great Uncle Bob also had his own battle with Alzheimer's. He was one of the kindest and most generous people constantly volunteering and donating his time. One of my fondest memories was seeing him and all my other aunts, uncles, and cousins up at Bayfield and swimming in the great lakes. He was always cheerful and a wonderful listener. 

Thankfully my family members were able to have the best possible support at the time, but to find a cure that keeps anyone from having to mourn the loss of their loved ones before they actually pass would be such a blessing.

Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease.