Meet Helen - beautiful, brilliant, warm, loving, faithful, active, engaged, talented, driven wife, mother, tireless advocate and counselor. She passed away February 6, 2021 after succumbing to the effects of Alzheimer's Disease. But those of you who have also lost loved ones to Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia know that I actually lost her years earlier.

She isn't the only person I've lost - or am in the process of losing - to this disease, and I'm certainly not alone. The first I learned of a disease called Alzheimer's was when my grandfather was "diagnosed" in 1986, before the medical community knew how to use MRIs and other tests to accurately diagnose the disease while someone was alive. Since then, I lost my mother-in-law, my mom, and others in my family and in my extended circle of friends are now in varying stages of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

It's really important for everyone to be aware of the importance of finding treatments and eventually even a cure for not only Alzheimer's but also other forms of dementia. Please visit Alz.org to learn more, and know that this organization is seeking cures and providing much needed support for individuals suffering from and caregivers supporting those with all forms of dementia, not only Alzheimer's.

Support our team for the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's®, the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Please join me in person in beautiful Newport, RI on September 22 and we'll walk together, or consider donating on behalf of my mom and family or your own.

Thank you.

With love and gratitude,

Christine