Alzheimer's and other dementia have been a part of life in my family since before I was born. My maternal Grandmother had it, and passed before I was old enough to know her. I grew up with stories my mom would tell me about how hurt she was that when she would go to visit her mother, she wouldn't recognize her, but would always know her oldest sister, and that hurt her so much.
My fraternal Grandmother was the only grandparent I ever knew, and she was so sweet to her Grandchildren. I have so many wonderful memories of her, and she lived into her late 80s before Alzheimer's struck her. To hear from my parents how she was slipping was heartbreaking, and the last time I saw her, she couldn't remember who I was, looking into her eyes, which always had that special sparkle when she saw me, she just wasn't 'there' anymore. I finally understood how my mom felt when she said her mom didn't remember her.
Now, my mom is going thru Alzheimer's. For one who never forgot a birthday or anniversary, who was my shoulder to cry on, my strength when I needed it, needs her sons to be that for her as her short term memory fades. Alzheimer's is robbing her of all the wonderful memories of the people who care and love her. And how that takes a toll on us to watch her fade into the long goodbye.
I am fundraising for the Alzheimer's Association, and volunteer, in the hopes a cure for this disease can be found, and so that others won't have to go through it. Memories should be something we have with us until we pass away, not robbed from us so we suffer and cause suffering to the ones who love us the most.
My Progress
Thank you for helping advance Alzheimer's support, care and research.
103.55
I have raised
500
My Goal
My Achievements
Self-Donor
Top Fundraiser
T-shirt
Storyteller
Facebook Fundraiser