By: Alec Fraggos, Law Clerk at Peck Ritchey, LLC Much of Stan Lee’s life was marked by adventure, creativity, and fame. The writer, editor, publisher, and producer took on several roles beyond what marked his career success. Lee was a father, husband, and philanthropist. However, the end of Lee’s life is a stark reminder that financial exploitation can happen to anyone, regardless of income, resources, and educational attainment. While Lee’s estate was likely carefully crafted and well thought out, few could have predicted that Keya Morgan, Lee’s business manager, would seek to exploit Lee’s cognitive decline for his own financial gain. Yet, Lee’s tragic end-of-life events remind those in the estate planning and health care industries of one crucial fact: exploitation, especially financial exploitation, occurs in the shadows. And, despite the excitement and fame that marked most of Lee’s life, the end of his life, like so many other elderly Americans, was marred by conflicts surrounding his affairs, both personal and financial.  This article aims to address some of the ways in which aging populations and their caretakers can prevent situations like those Lee experienced. In doing so, this article seeks to identify how financial exploitation is typically carried out and how it can be prevented. The piece will then look to how the State of Illinois has dealt with the financial exploitation of the elderly and how the state ranks within the United States. The final part is an analysis of how seniors and their families can take steps to prevent financial exploitation, with families standing on the front lines of protecting their loved ones.   Like so many elderly Americans, Lee’s former business associate, Keya Morgan, financially exploited Lee in isolation. Morgan “isolated lee from his family and longtime associates, seized control of his finances, misappropriated millions in assets, coerced him into public appearances, and restricted access to family members and those who had supported Lee for decades.” An April 2018 YouTube video captured the extent of Lee’s cognitive decline. Lee attended the Silicon Valley Comic Con, accompanied by Morgan. As attendees gathered to catch a glimpse of Lee, he was seen struggling to sign his name. Morgan, alongside Lee, “spoke to Lee as if he were a child, schooling him on how to spell his name. ‘Stan Lee. S-T-A-N…’ Morgan spelled it out again and again.” Unlike most elderly Americans suffering from cognitive decline, Lee’s struggles were at times publicly documented. However, like Lee, America’s elderly population, especially those experiencing cognitive decline, deserve protection. While the law plays a key role in providing these protections, loved ones stand on the front lines of protecting the elderly. As of 2024, the Illinois Adult Protective Service (APS) reports that of the types of abuse investigated, financial exploitation remains atop the list. Of the types of abuse investigated, financial exploitation accounts for 25.05% of all categories listed.  According to 2022 FBI reports, Illinois seniors were “swindled out of a record $79.5 million, up from $5 million in 2014.” More alarming is the fact that nationally, only 1 in 44 elder financial abuse cases are even reported. Broadly speaking, Illinois has its work cut out in protecting the elderly from financial exploitation. Illinois ranks 49 th  among states in the number of “suspicious banking transactions per capita reported against older adults by financial institutions.” Moreover, Illinois is also among only “six states without its own force of investigators to look into exploitation cases, saving money by contracting with about 40 local service agencies to do that work.”  Despite the bleak picture these statistics paint, Illinois has not neglected to implement measures to protect its elderly population from financial abuse. The Bankers and Seniors Against Financial Exploitation (B*SAFE) program was developed in 2001 through a collaboration of law enforcement and state agencies, “to address to growing problem of financial exploitation.” In many instances, seniors prefer to bank in-person as opposed to online, with many seeing “the same teller who routinely handles his/her financial transactions each time he/she visits the banking facility.” B*SAFE educates the teller “on potential signs of financial exploitation.” Illinois also created the Elder Abuse Task Force which consists of a “22-member committee consisting of agency heads, elder abuse experts, legislators, and law enforcement.”Illinois has its work cut out, but the task of protecting its elderly from financial abuse is not impossible.  The American economy continues to digitize at rapid rates, and America’s elderly population is at a steep disadvantage. As the aging generation of baby boomers continue to live alone, America’s elderly face an unfamiliar and for many, daunting digital economy. 2022 reports estimated that 26 million Americans over the age of 50 are living solo, “making this the quickest-growing demographic in the U.S.” What’s more, by 2030, “all baby boomers will be over the age of 65.” Isolation of the elderly, as evidenced by Lee’s case, poses a slew of dangers, especially financial. Elder abuse also increases physical risks to the exploited as, “elder abuse was associated with greater risk of mortality.” Protecting the senior population from financial exploitation requires protection prior to when capacity begins to decline or diminish.  For seniors with diminished or diminishing capacity, families can take steps to protect their loved ones from financial abuse. The American Bankers Association (ABA) recommends that seniors should not rush into financial decisions, and that seniors should ask for details in writing while also obtaining a second opinion. Additionally, seniors and their families should form a relationship with their banks and those individuals who handle their finances. Perhaps more importantly, it is critical that seniors and their families regularly review credit reports, refrain from giving personal information, including Social Security Number, account number or other financial information to anyone over the phone unless the senior or family member initiated the call and trust the other party. While this list is not exhaustive and addresses only a few ways seniors can protect themselves from financial exploitation, families provide a strong first line of defense.  Stan Lee’s case is not uncommon and is certainly not the last case in which a senior is taken advantage of financially by a trusted individual. However, for seniors and their families, there is hope. Financial exploitation is preventable. Seniors can put themselves in the best position by consummating an estate plan as early as practicable, forming a trusted relationship with their financial advisors and fiduciaries, and cultivating a transparent relationship with loved ones whom the senior trusts. Stan Lee’s case is not only a reminder that families play a key role in the protection of their loved ones, but that thorough estate planning is but one major step to preventing the kinds of end-of-life turmoil that marred Stan Lee’s final years.  The Law firm of Peck Ritchey, LLC, affiliated for many years with the Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, has recently been named the Legal Education Partner of the Association. Kerry Peck, Managing Partner of Peck Ritchey, LLC serves as Chair of the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Elder Law and previously as President of the Chicago Bar Association. Mr. Peck is Co-Author of Alzheimer’s and the Law and Don’t Let Dementia Steal Everything, books which he wrote at the request of the American Bar Association. Kerry Peck served on the Association’s Board for many years and the Law Firm was honored last year by the Alzheimer’s Association. Peck Ritchey LLC is a one-stop shop for families navigating the devastating effects of a loved one with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Nearly half a million American veterans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, a number expected to grow significantly as our population ages. These heroes, who have already given so much in service to our country, now face new challenges as Alzheimer’s brings changes in memory, thinking, and behavior that go far beyond normal aging. To support veterans and their families, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter invites you to join a special webinar on Wednesday, November 12, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.  This educational session will help participants understand the difference between normal aging and Alzheimer’s, recognize common warning signs, and learn about the importance of early detection and diagnosis.  Experts will also discuss what to expect during the diagnostic process and share valuable resources from the Alzheimer’s Association to help families navigate care and support. In addition, Debi Terfruchte and Michelle Kennon will provide an overview of the VA’s Caregiver Support Program and Geriatric Services for Veterans, offering insight into the programs available to those who have served our nation. Together, we can honor our veterans by ensuring they and their families receive the care, support, and understanding they deserve. If you or a loved one is a veteran, this is an opportunity to gain knowledge, connect with resources, and take important steps toward understanding and managing Alzheimer’s. To register, call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 or click the registration link here . You can also visit alz.org/CRF  to explore additional education programs available online and in your community.

If you're raising children and  helping care for an aging parent, you’re part of a unique and often overlooked group known as the Sandwich Generation . Every day, millions of Americans juggle school runs and sports practices with doctor’s appointments and difficult health decisions for aging loved ones. It’s rewarding—but it can also be overwhelming. That’s why we’re inviting you to a special evening designed just for you. Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM at Sage YMCA, 701 Manor Road, Crystal Lake, IL Join the Alzheimer’s Association , Mercy Health , and other local community partners  for a supportive and informative gathering. We’ll kick off the evening with an introduction to the powerful PBS documentary, “Caregiving” , followed by a thoughtful discussion session where you’ll be able to share experiences, ask questions, and connect with others who truly understand what you’re going through. What to Expect: A welcoming space to learn, talk, and connect Free sandwiches and snacks (because every Sandwich Generation caregiver deserves a sandwich!) Local organizations on-site with practical resources and support The chance to step away from your responsibilities for just a moment—and realize you’re not alone Whether you’re just beginning your caregiving journey or you’ve been navigating this dual role for years, this event offers a valuable opportunity to gain insights, feel seen, and find community. Space is limited, and RSVPs are required. 📞 Call 800-272-3900 today to reserve your spot. Being part of the Sandwich Generation isn’t easy—but together, we can make it a little lighter.

What an unforgettable night! Last week, the 19th Annual Memory Rock Chicago  rocked the city and raised an incredible $127,010 (and counting!)  in support of Alzheimer’s care, support, and research  — making this our most successful year yet ! This powerful evening brought together music lovers, advocates, and supporters united by a shared passion to end Alzheimer’s. The energy in the room was nothing short of electric. A huge thank you  goes out to our amazing co-chairs Adam Loritz  and Chris Parks , our dedicated planning committee , and our 25 generous sponsors  who made this milestone event possible. Of course, the night wouldn’t have been the same without our incredible bands — Superheat  and Common Area Maintenance  — who had everyone on their feet and dancing for a cause that truly matters. 🎸 Relive the night!  Check out photos from the event here:👉 Event Photos on Flickr It’s not too late to make an impact — donations are still being accepted  at MemoryRockChicago.com . Every dollar brings us closer to a world without Alzheimer’s. We can’t wait to see you next year as we celebrate 20 years of Memory Rock Chicago  — our biggest celebration yet!

Leah pictured in front of the Bank of America Marathon advertising campaign on their building. When Leah lost a close family friend Susie Rushing Plakon   to Alzheimer’s in 2018 at just 57 years old, it was more than a heartbreaking goodbye. This wasn’t supposed to happen so soon, not to someone so full of life known far and wide for her musical ear, her devotion to her family, and her love for Jesus. The loss sent ripples through Leah’s community, bringing together a circle of people united not only in grief, but a powerful shared purpose, to keep her friend’s memory alive and fight for a future without Alzheimer’s. Now, Leah is preparing to run the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 12th , and this race is about far more than the miles. She’s lacing up her shoes to raise critical funds for the Alzheimer’s Association , a cause that has taken on deeply personal meaning. Every step she takes on race day is in honor of her beloved friend, a woman who lived with courage, warmth, and strength, even in the face of a cruel and unrelenting disease. “Growing up, I watched my dad's passion shine through his work in the Assisted Living/ Memory Care business development space,” say Leah. “While I knew how important these facilities were to families in need, I'd never considered the possibility that someone so close to me could be checking in as a resident.” Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, and it robs individuals of their memories, independence, and identity. It’s a disease that doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed, but it impacts families, friends, and communities. Leah has seen this firsthand, and instead of letting grief consume her, she chose to channel it into action. By running the marathon, Leah is not only raising awareness, she’s raising hope. Every dollar she raises goes toward: Supporting individuals and families  living with Alzheimer’s Funding critical research  to understand the disease and search for a cure Advocating for better care  and more accessible resources for all affected For Leah, marathon training has become more than physical preparation, it’s been an emotional journey. On race day, she won’t be running alone. With each mile, she’ll carry the spirit of her friend beside her, along with the strength of her community and the determination to make a difference. Leah’s story is a testament to the power of turning loss into legacy. You can support her mission by donating to her fundraising page, sharing her story, or learning more about the work of the Alzheimer’s Association. Whether it’s one step or 26.2 miles, every bit of support brings us closer to a cure. To donate visit: http://act.alz.org/goto/leahgreen2025marathon

Over the last couple of years, we have worked very closely with the following local organizations to deliver education programs, provide support groups, and recruit volunteers in areas where the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter has been focusing additional efforts. Working with the organizations has been an honor, and we are grateful for the opportunity to support them in this new channel.  LA Cares LA Cares is a small organization that serves a Spanish-speaking population and also recently received nonprofit status. The Latino Alzheimer’s Coalition for Advocacy, Research and Education (LA CARE) is a group of academic and community partners dedicated to empowering individuals with or at risk of Alzheimer’s disease and their families to obtain greater access to education, family support services, and research opportunities. We have been blessed to work with the LA Cares leadership on our Illinois Brain Health Project, our Latino Conference - Bringing the Light, the Board’s Research Committee, and have had the pleasure to be connected to their partnering groups LA BROCHA, an initiative for arts-based programming for seniors, and Somos Ancla, which has now become an Alzheimer’s Association support group hosted in Spanish. Contact: Perla Castro ( perla@communicaglobal.com ), Judy Rocha ( jsrocha5@neiu.edu ), and David Marquez ( marquezd@uic.edu )  Center on Halsted The Center on Halsted is the Midwest's most comprehensive community center dedicated to advancing community and securing the health and well-being of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) people of Chicagoland. More than 1,000 community members visit the Center every day. The Center on Halsted has hosted Alzheimer’s Association Education programs annually and provides critical services to the senior community. Contact: Britta Larson ( blarson@centeronhalsted.org )  Chinese American Service League (CASL) CASL supports individual and family wellness through a variety of critical programs, services, and resources for adults that strengthen the entire community by enhancing the security and stability of our community members. Recently, CASL has spearheaded a search for Mandarin-speaking individuals who can be trained on the Alzheimer’s Association education programs to provide education to their community members. They are also working to establish Chinatown in Chicago as a dementia-friendly neighborhood. Contact: Winnie Lam ( winnie.lam@casl.org ) and Ruby Tan ( jinxiao.tan@casl.org ) Center for Better Aging - St. Bernard Hospital The Center for Better Aging empowers individuals over 50 to age with confidence and independence. Their health care and professional medical team delivers premier whole-person healthcare across our hospital campus, at home, and throughout the community. They are located on Chicago’s South Side, serving community members in the surrounding area.  The Center has supported the Release the Silence conference as a sponsor, and our contact joined the Planning Committee to help provide guidance and insight throughout the planning process. They also host our Mobile Care Consultant and provide a wide variety of education programs to their community members. They have also connected the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter with additional partners for collaboration, including the Kelly Branch Public Library. Contact: Penny Hill ( Penny.Hill@centerforbetteraging.org )  Community Health Community Health is a free clinic with locations on the West and South sides. CommunityHealth is one of the largest volunteer-based health centers in the nation. We provide primary and specialty care, medications, lab testing, mental health services, and health education at no charge to low-income, uninsured, and underinsured adults in Chicago. The majority of the population they serve are Black and African Americans, Hispanic/Latino, and Polish-speaking communities.  We have conducted several programs in partnership with the organization in English and in Spanish with our Mobile Care Consultant, and have been grateful for this partnership. Contact: Stephanie Willding ( swillding@communityhealth.org )

The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter will host its 2nd Annual Bringing the Light Conference virtually on Saturday, October 18, 2025, in English and in Spanish.  This conference is designed to help our community gain information on Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia and weave together insights on resources for caregivers. During the event, attendees will hear from Alzheimer’s Association experts, local and state-wide organizations like Rush University Medical Center, Sinai Community Institute, Lundbeck, Peck Ritchey, LLC, LA BROCHA, Somos Ancla, Enlace, PAES, ASI Healthcare Services, LA CARE, and the National Association of Hispanic Nurses Illinois Chapter. The Alzheimer’s Association is committed to providing access to resources and information to communities who need it the most and this event is part of this effort.   The conference is geared towards caregivers, future caregivers, and healthcare professionals who are looking for resources and support in the Latine and Spanish-speaking community. This event will be held from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. This event is free to attend and all attendees will receive a mailed packet with information from all participating organizations. Registration strongly encouraged and can be done by calling 800.272.3900 or going to alzillinois.org/alzbringingthelight . “Our community is facing a major challenge: how to support the growing number of Latinos living with Alzheimer’s disease and how best to support their unpaid family caregivers. Alzheimer’s disease impacts all races and ethnicities, but the Hispanic and Latino communities are 1.5 times as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease compared to Caucasians,” said Delia Jervier, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Illinois Chapter.  For media inquiries, please contact: Lionell Martin, Public Affairs Manager lrmartin@alz.org 773-593-4211 About the Alzheimer's Association: The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization that is dedicated to serving over 6.7 million Americans living with Alzheimer's and their 11 million caregivers. With a presence in all 50 states, it collaborates with 30+ national and 600+ local organizations to address health inequities in underserved communities. It aims to create a world without Alzheimer's and dementia, with a mission to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research and provide support for all affected.

The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting  Chicago  residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Chicago, October 4, Lincoln Park Grove 2, 1735 N. Stockton Dr., Chicago, IL 60614 (new location) 8:00am. “We’re at a turning point in the fight against Alzheimer’s. For the first time, treatments exist that can alter the course of this disease,” said Jen Price, Vice President at Salesforce. “As the Local Presenting Sponsor of this year’s Chicago Walk, Salesforce is proud to stand with the Alzheimer’s Association. We invite everyone in our community to start a team, raise critical funds, and walk with us toward a future without Alzheimer’s. ” On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease. More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, nearly 12 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Illinois, there are more than 260,500 people living with the disease and 314,000 caregivers.  To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit http://act.alz.org/chicagowalk .   Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s ® The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s   is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.  Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk ® ; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s.     Alzheimer's Association ® The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to  Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit   alz.org  or call 800.272.3900.

Shared by: Eddy Cardiel  Tell us a little about yourself.   My name is Eddy Cardiel and I am an epidemiologist in the Chicagoland area. I love exploring nature, watching the latest movies, attending live music events, and I just became addicted to collecting plants.  How did you get involved with Walk to End Alzheimer's? I witnessed my friend fight a tough battle with Alzheimer’s and dementia as both of his parents suffered from this disease. Although I could not physically do anything to relieve the pain of losing his parents, I decided to join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s committee for the Illinois Chapter in Chicago, to try to help in any way that I possibly could. I quickly became involved and learned about other people’s stories. I became passionate about helping and I have been a part of the committee for 7 lucky years now. We have a lot of work to do to find the first person cured of Alzheimer’s disease.  Why should others raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer's disease? Research and treatments have advanced tremendously within these past 7 years and I strongly feel that a cure will emerge soon. There are so many advances that could have never happened if people didn't get together to raise funds and awareness. Eradicating this disease will take an army, therefore, we need everyone to help out as best as they can in order to achieve eradicating this disease within our lifetime. Plus, the walks are always an amazing experience and it is a great tradition to have! I always bring my family and friends along.   What do you want others to understand about Alzheimer's disease/dementia who may not have experienced it first-hand? I haven't experienced this disease first-hand. However, I have been witness to how a person can be affected by this fatal and disastrous disease. Alzheimer’s and other dementias not only affect an individual’s health but the whole family gets the full effect. It is not easy to have a family member be diagnosed with a progressive brain disease. The Alzheimer’s Association is calling on Chicago residents to come together in the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Chicago on Saturday, October 4  at its new location: Lincoln Park Grove 2 (1735 N. Stockton Dr., Chicago, IL 60614) . Check-in begins at 8:00 a.m. Register today  and get the latest updates: http://act.alz.org/chicagowalk

When Connie Lissner’s husband was formally diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2020, her family’s world shifted in an instant. A retired attorney with no prior experience in caregiving, Connie quickly stepped into the role of full-time caregiver, determined to navigate the unknown path ahead. In search of support and answers, she turned to the Alzheimer’s Association and found more than just information. She found a community. Since that life-changing diagnosis, Connie and her family have become deeply involved in the fight against Alzheimer’s. They’ve participated in the Chicago Walk to End Alzheimer’s  every year, using the event as both a fundraiser and a celebration of love, resilience, and remembrance. Today, Connie’s husband resides in a memory care facility, but Walk Day remains a powerful tradition for the Lissners a full day of unity, purpose, and reflection. It was during one of those deeply personal moments that Connie’s son, Ben Lissner, experienced a turning point of his own. On Valentine’s Day, Ben walked into a flower shop — not for a partner, but for his mom. “I realized my dad wouldn’t be able to get flowers for his wife anymore,” Ben shared. “He would want to if he could, but he couldn’t. It hit me that even though he’s still here, not all of him is here.” Stories like Ben’s — stories of love, loss, and unyielding hope — are at the heart of the Alzheimer’s Association’s mission. Now, thanks to a generous $15,000 matching gift from the Make It Better Foundation , supporters have a powerful opportunity to make twice the impact. Through this matching campaign, every donation made will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $15,000 . That means every gift goes twice as far in funding critical programs, lifesaving research, and round-the-clock support services for the millions affected by Alzheimer’s. Across the U.S., over 7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s with over 260,000 Illinoisian , and more than 11 million unpaid caregivers, mostly family members, support them every day. “It’s not just about watching someone forget,” said Ben. “It’s about watching someone fade. Watching my mom become not only a wife but a nurse, a guardian, and an anchor... it changed me. It made me want to do something.” Donations from this campaign will directly support: 24/7 Helpline Services  – A lifeline for families and individuals seeking guidance and emotional support. Local Support Groups  – Connecting caregivers and those affected by Alzheimer’s to vital community resources. Groundbreaking Research  – Aiming to improve early detection, develop effective treatments, and ultimately, find a cure. These services provide immediate relief to families like the Lissners, while also paving the way for long-term solutions. Supporters like Connie and Ben are among thousands nationwide stepping up to fight back. Recently, the Power of Purple Reason to Hope  fundraiser an annual Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter event honoring caregivers and advocates, broke records for attendance and fundraising, fueled by stories like theirs. “Alzheimer’s changes everything,” Connie said. “But it also brings out the best in people. We show up. We speak out. We fight back. That’s what my family is doing, and that’s what this campaign is about.” Join the fight. Honor a loved one. Support a caregiver. Help end Alzheimer’s.  Donate now at: alz.org/donate . Your gift will be matched up to $15,000 thanks to the Make It Better Foundation . Together, we can bring hope today and a cure tomorrow.

During Hispanic Heritage Month, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter honor Marta Cerda, a dynamic and visionary leader who currently serves as Board Chair. With over 38 years of experience spanning the corporate, nonprofit, philanthropic, and political sectors, Marta has consistently used her voice, influence, and expertise to transform systems and uplift underserved communities, particularly those disproportionately affected by health inequities, including Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Marta is the CEO of ASI, a $12 million not-for-profit organization providing home care services and employment and training programs across Illinois. Under her leadership, ASI has undergone a remarkable transformation—from traditional home care to a full care continuum, powered by innovative technologies and streamlined operations. Her ability to integrate forward-thinking strategies into real-world services has not only improved efficiency but also expanded access to quality care for thousands of families. Marta’s motivation to raise funds for Alzheimer’s research and support services is rooted because her grandmother died of Alzheimer’s and uncle lives with Lewy Body dementia. Her desire to prevent others from enduring the same stresses and challenges she witnessed her father face while caring for her mother. She believes in connecting caregivers with the necessary support services to alleviate their burdens and promote their well-being. Her passion for advocating for better care and raising awareness about Alzheimer’s is evident in her dedication to the cause. Marta Cerda recognizes the urgency of addressing the Alzheimer’s epidemic, which affects millions of Americans and is projected to impact even more in the future. She emphasizes the importance of making access to healthcare and support available to everyone affected by Alzheimer’s, highlighting the emotional toll it takes on both individuals with the disease and their caregivers. We are grateful to have Marta Cerda leading our efforts at the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter. Her transformative leadership and deep commitment to equity make her a beacon of hope and progress, not only this Hispanic Heritage Month, but every day of the year.