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We at the Alzheimer’s Association wish to extend our deepest appreciation and recognition to all caregivers who tirelessly support and care for loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. This year, we are particularly honored to spotlight Mary Fus, a remarkable individual whose dedication and commitment to our cause have made an indelible impact. Mary Fus is not just a participant in the Chicago Walk to End Alzheimer’s; she is a beacon of hope and resilience in our community. As a repeat Elite Grand Champion and Chair of the Mission Committee, Mary has led her team and demonstrated unwavering dedication, raising over $355,000 and personally raising over $87,000 for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Reflecting on her journey as a caregiver for her mother, who battles Alzheimer’s disease, Mary shares, “It takes more patience than you can imagine, but it is also an honor to give back to her and care for her when she needs it the most.” Mary’s profound commitment to her mother’s well-being exemplifies the selflessness and compassion inherent in the caregiving journey. With each step she takes in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Mary honors her mother’s legacy while advocating for a future free from the grips of this devastating disease. “Our roles are reversed now,” Mary reflects "I take care of her like she took care of me growing up." Her unwavering determination to confront Alzheimer’s head-on is a testament to the enduring bond between mother and child. As we commemorated Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month this past May, the Alzheimer’s Association proudly recognizes our AAPI partners who play a pivotal role in advancing our mission. These dedicated organizations, including Chinese American Service League (CASL) the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, Philippine Nurses Association of America, Inc., and Asian and Pacific Islander American Health Forum, have been instrumental in raising awareness and expanding our outreach within AAPI communities. With over 6 million individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease nationwide, and 233,000 in Illinois alone, the AAPI community faces a growing public health crisis. As the older adult population within the AAPI community continues to rise, the need for early diagnosis, risk reduction, and quality care becomes increasingly urgent. Dr. Carl V. Hill, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at the Alzheimer’s Association, emphasizes the importance of equitable access to resources and support, stating, “We believe that all communities should have a fair and just opportunity for early diagnosis and access to risk reduction and quality care.” The collaborative efforts of our AAPI partners are integral to achieving this vision, ensuring that individuals, families, and communities affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias receive the support and assistance they deserve. As we celebrate and honor the resilience of caregivers like Mary Fus and recognize our AAPI community, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a world without Alzheimer’s—a world where every caregiver can find solace and support in their journey of love and caregiving. Across the nation, the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's® is full of flowers, each carried by someone committed to ending this disease. Because like flowers, our participants don't stop when something's in their way. They keep raising funds and awareness for a breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Register today and be the first to know about Walk in your area by clicking here.

Tara Harris has seen the devastating effects of dementia firsthand through her clients and a loved one. This profound experience has ignited a passion in her to support the Alzheimer's Association and their mission to combat this debilitating disease. Both in her business and personal life, Tara is dedicated to volunteering with local non-profits and raising awareness about the resources available within her community. For over eight years, Tara has been a dedicated participant in the Walk to End Alzheimer's in Rockford, Illinois. Her commitment to the cause has significantly impacted the community, particularly through her leadership role with Edward Jones. Under her guidance, the firm's involvement in the walk has seen remarkable growth. In just two years, participation expanded from four teams to twenty-four teams, involving 100 participants and raising over $16,000 in 2023. Tara attributes this impressive growth to the collaborative efforts of a small, dedicated team of Financial Advisors and Branch Office Administrators who she recruited to assist with recruitment and planning. Their collective efforts ensured a memorable and engaging Walk day experience for all participants. Looking ahead, Tara is thrilled to continue her support for the Alzheimer's Association. She will serve as the Executive Event Chair for the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer's, where she hopes to drive even greater community engagement and fundraising success. Tara’s journey is a testament to the difference one person’s passion and dedication can make in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Since 2016, Edward Jones has served as a National Presenting Sponsor for the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s, which takes place in more than 600 communities each year. Over these years, more than 100,000 participants have walked under the Edward Jones banner, raising more than $39 million to combat Alzheimer’s disease. 2024 marks the fourth year of our renewed, five-year strategic alliance with the Alzheimer’s Association. Through this partnership, Edward Jones continues to enhance care and support programs, provide educational materials, fund critical Alzheimer’s research, and impact early detection. Edward Jones has prioritized Alzheimer's as its first national community sponsorship and pledged to raise $50 million and aim to have 150,000 participants in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s by the end of 2025. Across the nation, the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's® is full of flowers, each carried by someone committed to ending this disease. Because like flowers, our participants don't stop when something's in their way. They keep raising funds and awareness for a breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Register today and be the first to know about Walk in your area by clicking here.

Contributor: Jenn Franck Jenn Franck, a compassionate soul with a heart dedicated to serving others, found her calling amidst the challenging landscape of Alzheimer's care. Her journey began in the realm of long-term care, where she witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of Alzheimer's disease on the elderly, their families, and the dedicated staff caring for them. Motivated by empathy and a drive for change, Jenn immersed herself in the cause, becoming a Certified Dementia Practitioner and a steadfast advocate for Alzheimer's awareness and support. Alzheimer's disease is a growing concern, impacting an ever-increasing number of families. The Edward Jones Strategic Alliance with the Alzheimer’s Association® is one way the firm helps protect and preserve our clients’ health, relationships and financial goals. Since 2016, Edward Jones has proudly served as a National Presenting Sponsor for the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s, which takes place in more than 600 communities each year. Since then, more than 100,000 participants have walked under the Edward Jones banner. The firm and our associates have raised more than $39 million for the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease. 2024 marks the fourth year of our renewed, five-year strategic alliance with the Alzheimer’s Association. Edward Jones continued support will enhance care and support programs, provide educational materials, fund critical Alzheimer’s research and impact early detection. As a firm, we prioritized Alzheimer’s as our first national community sponsorship for a multitude of reasons and have pledged to raise $50 million with an estimated 150,000 Walk to End Alzheimer’s participants by the end of 2025. Before joining Edward Jones, Jenn's involvement with the Alzheimer's Association was already profound. She dedicated herself to facilitating support groups and engaging in advocacy efforts, including annual trips to Springfield to champion the cause. When joining the Edward Jones team did not limit her commitment; instead, she leveraged her position to stay connected with regional branches, offering valuable resources and information on caregiving, education, and vital statistics. For over 15 years, Jenn has been a pillar of support for the Alzheimer's Association, tirelessly volunteering, fundraising, and advocating for change. Her unwavering dedication stems from a belief in the importance of raising awareness about the resources available through the Association. "Many people, unaware of the support systems in place, are often surprised to learn about the 1-800 hotline—a lifeline offering assistance and guidance to those affected by Alzheimer's." As the Fox Valley Walk approaches, Jenn stands ready to lead by example, mobilizing her community to join the fight against Alzheimer's. With each step taken, she continues to be a beacon of hope, shining a light on the importance of solidarity, awareness, and action in the battle against Alzheimer's disease. Jenn Franck's story is not just one of individual commitment but a testament to the power of collective action in the face of adversity. In her relentless pursuit of a world without Alzheimer's, she inspires others to stand alongside her, united in the fight for a brighter, dementia-free future. Across the nation, the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's® is full of flowers, each carried by someone committed to ending this disease. Because like flowers, our participants don't stop when something's in their way. They keep raising funds and awareness for a breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Register today and be the first to know about Walk in your area by clicking here.

After unanimous votes in both the Senate and House, the Illinois legislature passed Senate Bill 3318, an initiative of the Alzheimer’s Association that ensures state employee health insurance provides coverage for all FDA-approved Alzheimer’s treatments.  Illinois is the first state in the country to legislatively enact this requirement for Alzheimer’s treatment coverage, further expanding access to these new drugs that slow the progression of the disease. "My uncle Mike suffered from Alzheimer's disease which took his life at a young age," said House sponsor State Representative Mary Gill. "This bill hits close to home, so I couldn't have been more proud to carry this bill to help someone in the future have a better chance at life." Recently, the FDA approved the first-ever treatments to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease - with several more promising drugs in the approval pipeline.  However, these treatments are only effective if administered in the early stages of the disease.  Senate Bill 3318 ensures that state employee health insurance plans provide coverage for these Alzheimer’s treatments when medically necessary, while prohibiting the use of step therapy which can unnecessarily delay treatment.  The bill also requires coverage of diagnostic imaging or tests needed to confirm a diagnosis. “For individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones, access to effective treatment is a lifeline of hope,” said State Senator Laura Murphy, the Senate sponsor of Senate Bill 3318. “By removing step therapy requirements, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting patients on their journey, providing them with the best possible chance for improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life.” “Early-onset Alzheimer’s shortened my mother’s life and stole her dreams of a retirement filled with joy in her grandchildren,” said Holly Blastic, a state employee who would benefit from coverage upon this bill becoming law.  “My biggest fear is the burden Alzheimer’s could place on my children.  This legislation gives me peace of mind as a mother – and hope for a future where this disease no longer ravages families like mine.” This vital, first of its kind legislation passed with unanimous bipartisan votes in both chambers - the Illinois Senate on a vote of 58-0-0 and the Illinois House on a vote of 107-0-0.  It now heads to Governor Pritzker’s desk for his signature.

Contributed by: Diana Cose "Hope is being able to see that there is light despite the darkness." - Archbishop Desmond Tutu After my husband was diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s, the culture in our home changed as we took on a complicated new identity. I call it a diagnosis of the family. As my husband bravely faced this condition, our 11 and 14 year old sons found themselves managing complex brain change in their father, and change in their mother, because I was changing too. I became primary care partner, sole breadwinner and just like that, single mom. I recognized the support gap for a family like mine; younger, with younger kids, with dementia. Families living with younger-onset are unseen, misunderstood and under-resourced. There are many of us, but the resources designed for us are sparse. I was determined to make meaning of things and turn so much sorrow into something bright – so, I imagined a place that would fill this massive gap for younger families – a place that would sustain and heal us on our way through. I visualized a place where we could find each other - a virtual, innovative, brave space where families could belong and find light. I imagined Lorenzo’s House. I took a leap of faith and leveraged my past career in education in Chicago as a founder and president of a network of public charter schools for 25 years. Lorenzo’s House was founded out of my son’s bedroom in 2021. Our tagline is, ‘We Bring Light’ with a vision to shift the narrative for younger families - from isolation and suffering, to connection and light. Together we build community, cure isolation, and drive a new dementia justice. With a deep focus on the sons and daughters of younger-onset - we will unite in advocacy and dismantle the stigma that has kept us in the shadows. There is a 200% up-tick in the United States of individuals diagnosed with younger-onset (YOD) Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia (BXBS Report 2020). With nearly 4M (Global Burden The Cose Family in Chicago--Lorenzo, Diana, Justin (15), Lucas (11) of Disease Study 2019) individuals diagnosed with YOD worldwide, multiplied by a family of four, there are over 16M people in need of connection, resources, and light with a projected 48M by 2050. Today, just three years operating, we are filling a gap and solving this societal problem. Lorenzo’s House is the global hub of support for the young people and their families affected by younger-onset dementia - having served over 2000 family members across 45 states and 10 countries. We are a non-profit social impact organization offering free VIRTUAL programming to families, with a focus on young people ages 4 to 35+ of a parent who has lived with, or is living with any form of younger-onset dementia. YOUTH SUMMIT JUNE 14TH & 15TH! For the sons and daughters of a parent living with or has lived with younger-onset dementia of any form REGISTER TODAY–MUSIC, MOVEMENT & COMMUNITY! ONLY in-person program: Music, Movement; Community is a free Chicago-based in-person and virtual experience for the entire family affected by younger-onset dementia with campuses on the North and South Sides with classes twice monthly. Register for Music, Movement & Community here. While we welcome ALL young people and their families affected by younger-onset to our programs, currently all services are in English with limited time zone program offering.

As we age, it's common to experience occasional memory lapses or moments of forgetfulness. However, when memory loss starts to interfere with daily life and tasks, it could be indicative of a more serious condition like Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Understanding the warning signs and seeking early detection are crucial steps in managing these conditions effectively. On Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM CDT, we invite you to join us at the King Library, located at 3436 S King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616, for an informative session on Alzheimer's awareness and early detection. This event aims to shed light on common signs of Alzheimer's, approaches to discussing memory concerns with loved ones, the significance of early diagnosis, available tests and assessments, and valuable resources provided by the Alzheimer's Association. Here are 10 warning signs of Alzheimer's: 1)    Memory Loss Disrupting Daily Life: Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or events and relying on memory aids or loved ones for things they used to handle independently. 2)    Challenges in Problem-Solving or Planning: Difficulty concentrating, following a familiar recipe, or managing monthly bills. 3)    Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Struggling to drive to a familiar location, manage a budget, or remember the rules of a favorite game. 4)    Confusion with Time or Place: Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time. 5)    Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships: Difficulty reading, judging distance, or determining color or contrast. 6)    New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing: Struggling to follow or join a conversation, repeating oneself, or calling things by the wrong name. 7)    Misplacing Items and Unable to Retrace Steps: Putting things in unusual places, losing things, and being unable to retrace steps to find them. 8)    Decreased or Poor Judgment: Making poor decisions in everyday situations, such as giving large amounts of money to telemarketers. 9)    Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities: Losing interest in hobbies, social activities, work projects, or sports. 10) Changes in Mood and Personality: Becoming confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious. Recognizing these signs early can lead to a timely diagnosis, allowing individuals and their families to access appropriate care and support services. At the event, attendees will also learn about the importance of discussing memory concerns with healthcare providers and the various tests and assessments used in the diagnostic process. We encourage everyone to join us for this discussion. A light lunch will be provided, and together, we can increase awareness, understanding, and support for those affected by Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Remember, early detection can make a significant difference in managing the condition and improving the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers. About the Alzheimer’s Association®: The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s®. Visit alz.org or call 800.272-3900.

The Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association proudly announces the success of its Inaugural Annual African American Release the Silence Conference, held on Saturday, May 4 in Springfield, Illinois. This impactful event brought individuals together for a day of engaging discussions and valuable insights. The conference provided a platform for crucial conversations led by Association staff, healthcare professionals, caregivers, volunteers, and advocates. Special acknowledgment goes to LaMyah Pearlina Lifestyle Host & Producer for WICS who served as Mistress of Ceremony, guiding attendees through the day’s activities. Attendees had the opportunity to explore topics ranging from new treatments to addressing disparities affecting the African American community, and from financial planning to providing care for loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The event was filled with invaluable insights and resources, empowering participants with the knowledge and tools needed to make a difference. Tina Montgomery, Manager of Education & Community Volunteers at the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, expressed heartfelt appreciation to all the attendees, vendors, speakers, and the planning committee for their unwavering dedication and support. "Your presence and contributions play a vital role in our continuous battle against Alzheimer’s. Together, we are breaking the silence and taking impactful steps towards ending this disease." As we reflect on the success of this event, let us continue to Release the Silence united in our mission to end Alzheimer’s. For more information about the Alzheimer’s Association and upcoming events, please visit alz.org/Illinois.

To further its mission of raising awareness and providing support, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter will host "Navigating Alzheimer's & Dementia: A Conference for First Responders" on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.  This conference will bring together industry experts and passionate individuals to share knowledge, best practices, and cutting-edge research about Alzheimer's disease, prevention, and care with our state’s First Responders.  First responders will gain invaluable tools, insights, and strategies to enhance their understanding and approaches when dealing with Alzheimer 's-related emergencies. Alzheimer’s disease causes people to lose their ability to recognize familiar places and faces. It’s common for a person living with dementia to wander or become lost or confused about their location, and it can happen at any stage of the disease. Six in 10 people living with dementia will wander at least once; many do so repeatedly. Although common, wandering can be dangerous — even life-threatening — and the stress of this risk weighs heavily on caregivers and family. When individuals with dementia are lost, they may show signs of anxiety, fear, or hostility — all of which can escalate to more aggressive behaviors. As the disease progresses and individuals with dementia forget family members and societal norms, there may be cases of false reports and victimization, indecent exposure, and shoplifting. Therefore, it is important that first responders understand proper tactics to use when in these situations. In 2016, the Illinois Silver Search program was launched and has since bolstered public awareness and provided vital resources for law enforcement when individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, related dementias, or cognitive impairments are reported missing. Silver Search has been a beacon of hope for families and communities across Illinois. As of today, 733 advisories have been issued since 2014. Through the Illinois State Police Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS), reports of missing persons are swiftly disseminated, ensuring a coordinated response to high-risk missing person cases. The Endangered Missing Person Advisory serves as a lifeline for local law enforcement to request public notices when individuals facing high-risk situations go missing. The Silver Search Task Force continues to disseminate critical information through various channels, including social media, radio, television, and digital displays on lottery terminals and interstate message boards. By harnessing the power of technology and comprehensive training programs, the task force empowers communities and enhances public awareness of the Silver Search process. In collaboration with the Illinois Lottery and the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Silver Search program has expanded its reach through digital displays on lottery terminals and message boards over Illinois interstates and tollways. These partnerships have been instrumental in increasing public awareness and maximizing search efforts. “When a loved one goes missing, time is of the essence.  It is imperative that you contact your local law enforcement agency immediately. Law enforcement utilizes many tools to locate a high risk missing person including the activation of the Endangered Missing Person Advisory.  The hope is using the eyes and ears of the public to help return the endangered person home safely.” said Craig Burge, Silver Search Coordinator, Illinois State Police. Conference Details Navigating Alzheimer’s & Dementia: A Conference for First Responders Date: Wednesday, June 5, 2024 (8:30 AM – 3:00 PM) Location: 2815 Jorie Blvd, Oak Brook, IL 69523 Registration: Free of charge Register today:  First Responder Conference | Alzheimer's Assoc. (alzillinois.org) or visit alz.org/illinois For more information about the Illinois Silver Search program, please visit www.silversearchillinois.org. About Silver Search: The Silver Search Task Force aims to offer comprehensive assistance for law enforcement and communities when individuals aged 21 or older with Alzheimer’s disease or related cognitive impairments go missing. Chaired by the Illinois State Police Silver Search Program Coordinator, Craig Burge, the task force includes the Illinois State Police, Illinois Alzheimer’s Association, Illinois Department on Aging, American Association of Retired Persons, and other key stakeholders.

The Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association proudly announces the success of its Second Annual African American Conference “Release the Silence: RACE into Action Conference,” held on Saturday, April 27 at the Greenwood Oasis. This impactful event brought together approximately 500 individuals for a day of engaging discussions and valuable insights. The conference provided a platform for conversations led by Association staff, healthcare professionals, caregivers, volunteers, and advocates. Attendees had the opportunity to explore topics ranging from new treatments to addressing disparities affecting the African American community, and from financial planning to providing care for loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The event was filled with invaluable insights and resources, empowering participants with the knowledge and tools needed to make a difference. “The Alzheimer’s Association is committed to creating spaces where we listen first. Hearing from community members and caregivers about their needs and concerns during the conference helps us to better understand how we can take action in serving our communities,” said Amelia Garza, Sr. Manager, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter. “I’m deeply grateful to all those who attended and shared their voices with us. Now the work of Taking Action continues as we incorporate what we heard from the community into our support efforts.” Special acknowledgment goes to Rufus Williams from WVON Radio, who served as the event emcee, guiding attendees through the day’s activities with grace and Dr. Karriem Watson with the All of Us Research Program who served as the conference Keynote Speaker. Additionally, we wish to thank the making speakers who shared their expertise and voices to help support the community through the Dementia journey. As we reflect on the success of this event, we will continue to Release the Silence and RACE into Action, united in our mission to end Alzheimer’s. For more information about the Alzheimer’s Association and upcoming events, please visit alz.org/Illinois.

Date: Thursday, April 25 Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM Location: Local Chapter Office or Virtually RSVP by April 12: https://alz-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PvonParnRcecZJfJDggDEg This event promises to be an inspiring gathering where we celebrate our champions like yourself and delve into the latest advancements in Alzheimer’s research. Your commitment to our cause is instrumental as we continue our journey towards finding a cure. During the event, you can look forward to: Updates on recent breakthroughs and discoveries. Networking opportunities with fellow champions who share your passion for making a difference. Insights into how your ongoing support directly contributes to our research efforts. Your presence at this event will not only enrich the experience but also strengthen our collective resolve in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Kindly RSVP by April 12 to confirm your attendance at this special event. If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at (your local staff partner). Thank you for your unwavering dedication and support. Together, let’s raise our glasses to the champions leading the charge against Alzheimer’s disease. Warm regards,

In the intricate tapestry of caregiving, where love intertwines with sacrifice, disparities carve their presence into the fabric of each caregiver’s journey. It’s only in recent times that the spotlight of population-based studies has shifted to illuminate the stark racial contrasts within the realm of dementia caregiving, shedding light on the burdens and obstacles faced by Black and Hispanic caregivers. Amidst these revelations lies a sobering truth: nearly half of Black and Hispanic individuals grappling with dementia seek refuge in the care of their adult children, a striking comparison to the one-quarter of White individuals who do the same. Yet, the burdens endured are far from alleviated. Black caregivers, steadfast in their commitment, often find themselves bearing heavier loads. They dedicate upwards of 40 hours per week to caregiving, a testament to their resilience in the face of adversity. Their role extends beyond mere companionship; they become essential pillars, providing aid with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), assuming roles of nurturer, confidant, and protector. However, alongside the emotional and physical strains of caregiving, a different burden persists – the weight of financial hardship. Particularly, Black male dementia caregivers find themselves disproportionately impacted, standing 3.3 times more likely to grapple with economic challenges than their counterparts. Despite the undeniable necessity for respite, Black caregivers are noticeably less inclined to seek such reprieve, underscoring the enduring gap in accessibility to support services. The journey of caregiving, laden with emotional and physical tolls, exacts its toll on mental well-being, with discrimination looming as a dark cloud over the welfare of African American caregivers. Yet, amidst the trials, glimmers of resilience and fortitude emerge. Black caregivers, more prone than their White counterparts, discover solace in the affirmative aspects of caregiving, fostering bonds that transcend the constraints of illness. Research even suggests they experience marginally higher levels of psychological well-being, a testament to the potency of love amidst adversity. However, the path to caregiving is fraught with hazards. Hispanic, Black, and Asian American caregivers find themselves grappling with heightened care demands, diminished external support, and elevated rates of depression, underscoring the pressing need for culturally attuned support systems. In the mosaic of caregiving, the ties that bind are often woven from the threads of familial and social support. For Black caregivers, the presence of robust support networks serves as a beacon of hope amid the darkest hours. Yet, amidst the challenges, there exists a glimmer of hope. Through resilience, solidarity, and unwavering love, caregivers of every shade navigate the labyrinth of dementia, their narratives a testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity in confronting adversity.

(Shared by Victoria Mullally) Loretta is a shining example of resilience and generosity, defying the challenges of Alzheimer’s with grace and determination. Despite the changes brought about by her diagnosis, she continues to embrace life with open arms, finding joy in simple pleasures and giving back to her community in meaningful ways. Independence Grove becomes a sanctuary for Loretta during the warmer months, where she relishes in the beauty of nature during her leisurely strolls. She reminisces about cherished memories of her father while enjoying ice cream, a tradition that brings warmth to her heart. Her granddaughter’s choir performances and musical events at Carmel Catholic High School add melody to her life, creating moments of connection and pride. Volunteering has become a cornerstone of Loretta’s life, providing her with purpose and fulfillment. Whether it’s writing thank you cards for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Lake County, packing food at Feed My Starving Children, knitting hats for those in need, she pours her energy into helping others. Despite her challenges, she has donated an impressive 200 hats in the past three years, a testament to her unwavering dedication. Through her journey, Loretta emphasizes the importance of family, friendship, and finding moments of joy amidst adversity. She encourages caregivers to support their loved ones in discovering activities that bring them happiness and a sense of accomplishment. For Loretta, knitting on a loom has become both a creative outlet and a therapeutic practice, allowing her to focus on the present moment and connect with others through her generosity. In the face of Alzheimer’s, Loretta’s spirit remains unbroken, inspiring others to embrace each day with gratitude and kindness. Across the nation, the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is full of flowers, each carried by someone committed to ending this disease. Because like flowers, our participants don’t stop when something’s in their way. They keep raising funds and awareness for a breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. Click here to register today and be the first to know about Walk in your area.