2023 Alzheimer's Association Memory Ball Dancing Stars

We're going to lay it all on the line and dance with unbridled conviction in honor of Patricia Jane Schreibeis, my mother and Rowan's grandmother, who sadly passed away on July 31st, 2019 after a 9 year battle with Alzheimer’s. Losing someone to Alzheimer’s is especially difficult because the disease steals your loved one away long before they finally succumb. My mother had a warm, infectious personality whose presence was felt and enjoyed by everyone she met. Our family was devastated when she was diagnosed in 2010. We all recognized the signs and knew it was coming, but nothing can prepare you for news like that. Many tears were shed as we tried to adjust to our new reality. Despite our best efforts, slowly but surely, Alzheimer’s robbed us of our beloved matriarch and all we could do was sit by and watch. She was 77 years old.

When we learned of The Alzheimer’s Association Memory Ball, we felt compelled to participate. This is our chance to help raise money that will be used to advance research into prevention, treatments, and a cure for Alzheimer's. At the same time, The Memory Ball provides a venue for Rowan and me to dance together one last time before she heads off to college as a double major in Dance and Environmental Science. Over the years, Rowan and I have performed several times together, beginning when she was very young. What father could refuse his 9-year-old daughter the request of a dance, even if it was to be performed in front of a large crowd? Of course, I said yes! One performance led to another and Rowan’s talent and passion for dance grew stronger with each passing year, as did my love and respect for her. Who knew that we'd still be dancing together a decade later?  To nurture, to support and to guide your children along the path they choose for themselves is the role of a good parent, I believe. I’m proud to have been a part of Rowan’s journey and I can’t wait to give it a go with her, one last time…

How can you help?  We need your support to meet our fundraising goal of $25,000! For the millions already affected by the disease, the Association offers care, education, support and resources in communities nationwide. Please make a donation to help the Alzheimer's Association continue their efforts. 

Thank you for joining our movement! The end of Alzheimer's disease starts here.

Rowan and Mike Schreibeis