My first exposure to Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia was when I was 14 years old.  My summer job that year was to walk to my great aunt’s house and take care of my great grandmother, Zorie for a couple of hours during the day.  We would walk together down the block and eat lunch together.  I would play the piano for her.

But she had no idea who I was.  She was still kind, still excited to see me.  She had her good days and her bad days, but I treasured every moment I spent with her.

After Michael’s dad was diagnosed with dementia, I knew that the road ahead was going to be hard.  I am proud of my mother-in-law.  She has been an incredibly loving caretaker to him.  It’s difficult to watch the disease progress over the years.

Several years ago, I saw a commercial promoting the Alzheimer Walk by the Alzheimer’s Association.  I thought this would be a great way for us to support Michael’s dad, honor my great-grandmother, and find encouragement as well.  So, we signed up and headed to our first walk.

Over the years, the locations have changed.  But the walk remains one of the greatest experiences we have each year.  We connect with people who are walking the same journey we are.

We were even blessed to have Michael’s family come down during different years, as well as friends here walk with us

Last year, the whole family was able to be here to participate together.

Every year we raise money to help aid the research into finding a cure for this disease.  This year’s goal is $500, and my personal goal is $200.  There are three ways you can personally help us reach our goal.  First, you can give what you can.  Whether it’s $5 or $50, please consider giving to this cause and helping to find a cure to this awful disease.  Second, Share our link below or this blog post with family or friends who might be able to support us this year.  And finally, you can pray or send happy thoughts. While the Alzheimer Walk is a relatively easy one, the journey of this disease is tough. Remember us in your daily thoughts and prayers as we battle this disease together as a family.