A huckleberry friend means being the right person for the job, the ideal partner for any given activity, and the one who is there when you most need a friend. 

We created this team, Huckleberry Friends, to honor our mom, Kathleen Curnyn Brennan. Also to honor our friend, Geraldine Foley, and the incredible staff at the Summit in Whitefield led by former director, Mary Bates. Our team name comes from one of Mom’s favorite songs, Moon River, the one she would hum so often as she took care of the family.    

No one can navigate the many paths of Alzheimer’s disease alone – you need that friend who shows up when most needed.

Our mom passed away last June at the age of 98. Mom was widowed twice, raised 14 children, 26 grandchildren, and, at the time of her death, 44 great-grandchildren. About 11 years ago dementia crept in to scramble and steal her memories. Slowly and painfully we were losing the person we knew and loved.  

We know how fortunate we were that throughout her journey our mom never forgot how to smile and laugh. She loved almost any kind of music and would never turn down a McDonald’s chocolate shake. She could also recognize every one of her children's faces, even if the names got muddled. 

We know not everyone dealing with Alzheimer’s disease is as lucky. We were fortunate to have been surrounded by people able to help and guide us. We are eternally grateful for all the people who have been there along this journey to support Mom and each of us.  

We will walk in St Johnsbury on September 24th and continue to be a part of this event because we want to ensure the resources and support are there for others when they need it – like a Huckleberry Friend!