Hello, my name is Dawn Townsend.

I would like to tell you a little about myself and who I am.

For the past couple of years, I have been having somemedical challenges. After countless doctors visits, I was diagnosed withPrimary Progressive Aphasia and early onset Alzheimer’s. Needless to say - notthe diagnosis I was expecting.

With my family by my side,  I as well as my family have been learning how tonavigate the next steps in life. 

I have been able to continue most of my normal activitiesand when I need assistance they are there for me.

One of my greatest passions in life is cosmetology. I was ahairstylist for 40 years. In April of 2024, I was no longer able to continueworking due to my condition. I will always carry in my heart my wonderfulcoworkers and clients who became part of my family. I truly miss you all everyday.

I have been married to my husband Frank for 31 years and wehave two beautiful children, who I could not be any prouder of.

My husband is the kindest person I know and is always therefor me and no matter what he has my back. He is one the funniest persons I know, he always makes me laugh and brings a smile to my face. NO matter how I am feeling.

Our first child, Frank Jr. is an English teacher in York,PA. He recently bought his first house with his beautiful girlfriend, Carly.I’ve enjoyed my trips to York in the past several years, and am really lookingforward to my trips to see them and their new home with nothing but positivityand hope for their future.

Our second child Andie has been working at the Peale Museumin Baltimore for the past year. Andie recently moved to the city with their fiancé,Danny. They moved into their first place and are enjoying life to the fullest.I have only made a few trips to Baltimore but have really enjoyed the area andam looking forward to spending more time there and exploring the area.

When Andie moved, they took their cat Claude with them. Imiss Claude as much as I miss my children. But the good news is that I havebeen looking for a new family cat that will sit with me while I watch TV andread the morning news. 

I enjoy spending my time with my family and friends; I enjoywatching sports especially the Eagles and Phillies Especially stay loose andsexy Brandon Marsh. 

I also enjoy going to concerts so far my favorite one hasbeen Cold Play, Chris Martin is my favorite performer, he always has a positivemessage and helps lift my spirits when I listen to his music.  Thank you Cold Play   

Several years ago, I lost my grandfather and grandmother to Alzheimerdoes, not know that one day I would personally be dealing with the samedisease.

While I may not be able to speak, write, or communicate aswell as I once used to, I still enjoy my time with my family and friends. Ienjoy listening and telling stories of the good old days and hearing howeveryone is doing. I also enjoy playing music bingo with our friends.

I do appreciate the time spent with everyone and I amgrateful that people try to understand my condition and allow me to be me(although sometimes helpful hints during our conversation are helpful when donewith love).

I am hopeful that someday there may be a cure forAlzheimer’s.