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  • Linda Phillips

Linda PhillipsMom, Wife, Sister, Daughter, and Healthcare Market Director

I am so inspired to join the WAM and just visited the Womens Alzheimer Prevention Clinic in Las Vegas. Thank you Maria Shriver and team for giving me the opportunity to prioritize my health and hopefully contribute to reducing the burden and impact of Alzheimers in the process. Mom - I am doing this in your honor. I love you so much.
  • Kim Miller

Kim MillerHealth, Wellness & Fitness Enthusiast

Hope Dealer here..and I love what WAM is doing. My mother-in-law and my aunt had dementia and it taught me so much about what we still don't know about this disease. My hope is that through focus and continued research, we may have a better understanding as well as tools to prevent it from destroying the lives of those we love.
  • Denise Burns

Denise BurnsMS

Alzheimer's has no bias it affects anyone, anywhere, anytime.
  • Barbie Boules

Barbie BoulesRDN

I'm a women's brain health RDN, specializing in the unique needs of women over 40. My mother has Alzheimer's. She lives with me, and I'm her caregiver. I've always been passionate about the female brain, but seeing this disease up close everyday has made it my life's mission to be loud about prevention. We'll beat this one day, but until then taking excellent care of our brains needs to be a priority.
  • Amy kim

Amy kimSelf employed

I’m 52, mom and wife - active and healthy and I want to do my part to ensure all women can beat the odds we’ve been given with Alzheimer’s!
  • Rakhii jhaa

Rakhii jhaacoach

Want to join
  • Barbie Boules

Barbie BoulesRDN

I'm a women's brain health RDN, specializing in the unique needs of women over 40. My mother has Alzheimer's. She lives with me, and I'm her caregiver. I've always been passionate about the female brain, but seeing this disease up close everyday has made it my life's mission to be loud about prevention. We'll beat this one day, but until then taking excellent care of our brains needs to be a priority.
  • Jill Chase

Jill ChasePresident, Chase Art Collaborative

I am an art consulting professional who specializes in the selection of visual artworks to be enjoyed by people with Alzheimers.
  • Barbara Milton Jr.

Barbara Milton Jr.Dr.

My beloved mother, Barbara Ella Milton, Sr. passed away in January 2019 from Alzheimer's. Thank God for organizations like WAM who continue to press for services, policies, resources for all of the millions of us living and dying from Alzheimer's. Gratitude abounds for your good works.
  • Dianne Orlando

Dianne OrlandoMrs

My mother suffered from dementia in the last years of her life. This was a tragedy that took her from our lives far too soon, not to mention the extraordinary sadness for her to lose herself within. I would like to learn more about involvement in WAM
  • Karen Blankenship

Karen BlankenshipMs.

My experience with Alzheimer's is through my mother and her father/my grandpa. I believe there's was brought on by stress and worry. He was the sole provider of his family of wife and seven children. My mother was mainly a stay-at-home mom for the majority of the time with two children at home and her husband/my dad was an alcoholic so she was stressed and worried. She did not get her driver's license until she was in her 40s. So I believe that stress and worry causes it or is a big part of it.
  • Richelle Flanagan

Richelle FlanaganCo Founder Women's Parkinsons Project

I was diagnosed with young onset Parkinson's Disease (YOPD) what pregnant with my daughter. I also have the APOE4 gene. Ironically I am a registered dietitian and was an international field hockey player and still got YOPD. I still believe diet & exercise very important to slow progression of both YOPD and hopefully keep Alzheimer's at bay. I co founded the Women's Parkinsons Project with two girlfriends with YOPD as we want to raise the voices of women with YOPD for better management & treatments for slowing, halting & hopefully curing Parkinsons. We want to join forces with women living with Alzheimer's or Parkinsons or caring for those with these diseases to call for much more research to end, or at least reduce, the suffering of the many living with these diseases.
  • Veronica Labouré Slaughter

Veronica Labouré SlaughterMrs

Thank you for bringing us together so we can fight back.
  • Pawler Garrahan

Pawler GarrahanRealtor

Both my mother and father had Alzheimers. During their lives they were incredibly vital and full of life. They were both high achievers and very social. They were a dynamic couple. But Alzheimers took them away from us month by month. They both recently passed away one week apart. Their passing is a huge loss of course, but the truth is I was missing them long before their death. Alzheimer had taken so much of them away already.
  • Ali Kianersi

Ali KianersiMrs

My father had Early on-set Alzheimer’s. As a woman in my 30’s, I’ve become very passionate about telling his story, implementing exercise and wellness into my own routines and being involved in Alzheimer’s advocacy.
  • Jennifer Wisneski

Jennifer WisneskiLoving Daughter that is a Witness to this horrific disease.

I have witnessed firsthand this horrible disease as I have watched both my parents suffer from its effects. I am concerned for my own future and pray that there will be a cure before my children reach their older years.
  • Patricia Neighbors

Patricia NeighborsMrs

In memory of my father and loved ones lost to this terrible disease . I will advocate and move forward with strength to do everything I can to protect my health and wellness in the fight to end Alzheimers 💜
  • Marie Corselli

Marie CorselliMrs.

Mom was wonderful. I took care of Mom for nearly 10 years along with my wonderful husband, Steve.
  • Victoria Perea

Victoria PereaRetired

My mother had ALZ . I DO NOT want to live with it!!!
  • Judy Larson

Judy LarsonDirector, Supply Chain and Logistics

My mother passed from Alzheimer's - so hard to watch a parent lose their grasp of reality and then see the fear and sorrow in their eyes when they experience brief glimpses of reality.
  • Judy Larson

Judy LarsonDirector, Supply Chain and Logistics

My mother passed from Alzheimer's - so hard to watch a parent lose their grasp of reality and then see the fear and sorrow in their eyes when they experience brief glimpses of reality.
  • Pam Cowley

Pam CowleyCommunity Engagement Manager

I want to spend the forward years of my life telling my mother's Alzheimer's story to raise awareness and specifically inform and empower African American families on risks, prevention and protection of future generations from this devastating disease.
  • Brian Buono

Brian BuonoBuono Money Matters

Thank you very much ! This is Mr.Brian Nicholas Buono and I'm deaf and however, my cell phone has been links just watch out for this allright ! Ill taking my cell phone to the Cell phone repair shop to figures out what the heck its has been going on with this issues but think more positive ! God always be with us smile! Im very happy about about my own big sacrifices God did good job with me ! Climate Changes and big everything ! As big overwhemling ! Love it ! As Liberal Man and Patriots Man will stand up for all of this ! I deserve that! Surprise that medicines has been found over than 6,000 hard to image this ! Boy big HALLELUJAH! Priase the Lord! Jesus Christ is my best friends than ever! Smile ! God always be with us! Amen! From, Mr.Brian Nicholas Buono.
  • Karen Marez

Karen MarezMs.

LOVE the work WAM is doing in the fight against Alzheimer's especially when it comes to women as we make up 2/3 of those diagnosed. One of those was my mom who passed from complications with ALZ in 2014. WAM's summits and everything they share make me hopeful for my generation of women in their 50s. We must commit to whatever it takes to find an end to this devastating disease while also dedicating ourselves to ending the stigma surrounding it
  • Cynthia Mitchell

Cynthia MitchellMother, wife and friend

I am living with this disease and lost my mother last year to Alzheimers. It is a very difficult time and hard to understand.
  • Laura Hughes

Laura HughesPsy.D.

By starting young with more exercise, focused nutrition, being involved with others, stimulating our brain through our relationships and activities, and prioritizing sleep, we can prevent or delay onset of dementia for so many women! Let's do it!!!
  • Ruby Cruz

Ruby CruzSocial Worker

Sending love, light, strength and patience to all the families going through this transition 🙏
  • Mariella Alpizar

Mariella AlpizarMs

I am a neuropsychologist, an advocate who thinks that together we can do so much to prevent Alzheimers and dementia.
  • Ayisha Jeffries Cissè

Ayisha Jeffries CissèHajja

We have made up our mindz to fight. Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.”– Dale Carnegie
  • Theresa Shevetz

Theresa ShevetzMom/daughter/caregiver

Wonderful work being accomplished through WAM!
  • Mina Chang, Ph.D.

Mina Chang, Ph.D.Deputy Director, State of Ohio Department of Aging

Voice of the Customer - age in place and care at home #womenbrainhealth #curealzehimer's #360wellnessforallabilities
  • Kimberly M LaBella

Kimberly M LaBellaMrs

Love you Mom
  • Nathalie Bonafe

Nathalie BonafePhD

Women deserve care throughout their entire lives. As a biomedical research scientist, Menopause coach and End of life Doula, I focus on the second half with customized care for women to navigate and thrive in perimenopause, menopause, and beyond with self-care, self-love, and self-determination.
  • kathleen Nealon

kathleen NealonMs

Would like to help as an advocate between Family and Patient...have some nursing studies and credits and Experience with my Moms Alz..and Neurologist
  • Maggie Moon, MS, RD

Maggie Moon, MS, RDAuthor, The MIND Diet

Research suggests that what you put on your plate can help or hinder cognitive abilities such as memory, language, attention, and more. As a registered dietitian with culinary school training, my goal is to be the bridge between the science and the plate.
  • Kim Lloyd

Kim LloydCaregiver

Of all the experiences I have had in this life, caregiving has been the most meaningful act of my lifetime. From this very personal and sacrificial journey, I have emerged with a renewed appreciation for being present. We must take care of our mind and body so that we can experience every moment that life has to offer.
  • LAUREN MILLER ROGEN

LAUREN MILLER ROGEN Founder “Hilarity for Charity”

"I have used my brain to Wipe Out Alzheimer's by creating Hilarity for Charity to inspire young people to use their voices and share their stories to fight this disease. My brain makes movies and movements happen. It has wit, wonder, and wisdom. It has vision, but it blind to excuses. It's a writer whose dialogue will change minds by the millions and a daughter who fights for her family's future." Support Hilarity for Charity
  • MARIA SHRIVER

MARIA SHRIVER

"Women's brains are worth it and mine is an agitator, instigator and innovator that is working to turn what some say is a hopeless disease into a movement of hopeful and empowered women. I am using my brain to convene this inspiring collection of women, celebrate their individual initiatives and ignite a next generation of advocates and caregivers committed to making women's brains a priority. As an Alzheimer's advocate for over ten years, I have testified before Congress, produced the award-winning The Shriver Report: A Woman's Nation Takes on Alzheimer's, executive produced the HBO Alzheimer’s Project and wrote the bestselling children's book What’s Happening to Grandpa?. As a mother of four, my brain is worth saving, and I will never stop using it to Wipe out Alzheimer's."
  • SARAH ROBB OHAGAN

SARAH ROBB OHAGAN President of Equinox

“When you've had the painful personal experience of watching your parent become afflicted by this terrible disease, you are determined to help find the cure. There is research that suggests decisions we make early on in our lives to commit to exercise, healthy nutrition and consistently good sleep can improve our chances of avoiding or delaying the onset of Alzheimer's. It's my hope is to share this emerging knowledge with families everywhere.”
  • ANN ROMNEY

ANN ROMNEY Founder of the Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases

“I know firsthand how terrifying and devastating these neurologic diseases can be, and I want to do everything in my power to help change outcomes for future generations. The team at Brigham and Women’s Hospital gave me the gift of enduring hope and that is what this center is about – improving and saving the lives of the 50 million people facing a heart-breaking diagnosis. ” Support the Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases
  • SHONDA RHIMES

SHONDA RHIMES

"My brain has allowed me to create stories which have been shared with the world through television. My brain has powered my imagination to keep up with the curious minds of my three daughters. The brain’s ability and power is unmeasurable and that is why I am using mine to wipe out Alzheimer's."
  • LINDSAY CRIST

LINDSAY CRIST

"I have worked in screening Alzheimer’s and dementia patients/families, worked in Alzheimer’s research in the past, and currently work in Alzheimer's research on a Phase III study. I noticed symptoms of the disease in my maternal Grandma but she passed by stroke before it could be diagnosed. I see the devastation that this disease causes by watching loved ones slip away. I feel as though a cure is very close and with advances in neuroscience, I think this heartbreaking disease can be wiped out and the lives of those diagnosed and their families could be significantly improved or extended."
  • RITA WILSON

RITA WILSON

“My mother died from Alzheimer's. Its painful to watch someone you love fade away. I do a crossword puzzle three to four days a week, exercise regularly and do brain training apps.”
  • LISA GENOVA

LISA GENOVA“Still Alice” Author

“I used my brain to write a book that became a movie, a story that has shown millions of people what it feels like to live with Alzheimer’s. I use my brain to write, speak out, and educate, to create compassionate awareness, to reveal the humanity behind the science, to shine a light on Alzheimer’s so that one day, we will have Alzheimer’s survivors.”
  • BROOKE SHIELDS

BROOKE SHIELDS

"Alzheimer's devastates the whole family. Losing a loved one to dementia is heartbreaking. The disease makes you feel like you never got a chance to say goodbye. We must put our minds towards eradicating this thief of a disease."
  • MARIA CARILLO

MARIA CARILLOChief Science Officer, Alzheimer's Association

"As Chief Science Officer for the Alzheimer’s Association, I am proud to be a part of the organization that is the world’s largest and most influential private, nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s science. I am inspired every day by the groundbreaking work we support around the world – and the bright minds that are behind that work. Even more, I am motivated by the need to shine a light on Alzheimer’s and make this devastating disease a national priority for government, business, communities and families."
  • THERESA HERBERT

THERESA HERBERT

“Watching my amazing mother fight Alzheimer’s everyday since my father was diagnosed 15 years ago, at age 59, has inspired me to use my brain to educate myself, my peers and the next generation on what we can do to wipe out this terrible disease - continually learn, make healthy choices, enjoy life and join the fight.”
  • TANYA SUSOEV

TANYA SUSOEV

"My father was diagnosed with dementia in 2007 after a number of misdiagnoses. He taught me, though indirectly, that the mistakes of our past do not drive our future, that we have the power in each of us to overcome, to forgive each other and ourselves and to want something more. He carried in him a warmth and positivity that I strive to emulate in my life. He taught me to redefine what it meant to be a young girl and challenge what is often expected as a woman. He gave me strength in my femininity and though without words, always encouraged me to stand my ground. I am so proud to remember him and his legacy as I play for a team, a cause and a community that honors the strength in women as athletes and voices of hope for better options and outcomes in our future."
  • SENATOR BARBARA MIKULSKI

SENATOR BARBARA MIKULSKID-Maryland

“Honor thy father and thy mother’ isn’t just a good commandment, it also makes good public policy. Alzheimer’s is an equal opportunity scourge, hurting millions of families as it strains the resources of our public health system. In the Senate, I have always fought to keep our biomedical innovation economy firing on all cylinders in search of a cure. Now, I’m proud to add my voice to the chorus women who support Maria Shriver’s Campaign to Wipe Out Alzheimer’s.”
  • ALISSA ANDEREGG

ALISSA ANDEREGGFounder Alz4Kids

Having grown up as a young caregiver for my late grandmother, I am using my brain to develop ways to educate, empower, and activate the next generation of Alzheimer’s youngest caregivers. Through my initiative Alz4Kidz and the accompanying guidebook, my hope is to provide resources and advice I wish I had as a ten year-old wanting to know what was happening to Grandma and how I could help. Now entering my senior year at Duke University, I challenge this upcoming generation of young caregivers to pick up where I left off. Now is the time for all generations to stand together to end Alzheimer's.
  • AI-JEN POO

AI-JEN POONational Domestic Workers Alliance Director

“I use my brain to wipe out Alzheimer's by helping to ensure that caregivers -- both family caregivers and caregiving professionals have the resources, training and support they need to sustain in their role as caregivers. They are our nation's unsung heroines and heroes; lifting them up will uplift us all.” How YOU can help Ai-Jen Wipe Out Alzheimer’s: Get involved with the National Domestic Workers Alliance here
  • PAT SUMMITT

PAT SUMMITTWomen’s Basketball Head Coach Emeritus, University of Tennessee

"I am using my brain every day by focusing on the growth of The Pat Summitt Foundation. Upon receiving my diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 58, my son, Tyler and I started the Foundation to help raise awareness and find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. We recently announced that the Foundation will create The Pat Summitt Alzheimer’s Clinic at The University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville, TN. The clinic will provide patient care, family and caregiver support, and clinical trials designed to help find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease." How YOU can help Coach Summitt: Visit www.patsummitt.org/clinic to learn more about The Pat Summitt Alzheimer’s Clinic.
  • KIMBERLY WILLIAMS-PAISLEY

KIMBERLY WILLIAMS-PAISLEY

"I use my brain to write about life, to share stories and insights. To inspire people to laugh or move them to cry. To transform into the characters I play. I use my brain every day as a mother, a wife and a daughter. And I am using my brain to help wipe out Alzheimer’s Disease."
  • DR. REISA SPERLING

DR. REISA SPERLING Harvard Neurology Professor

"As a neurologist specializing in the early detection and treatment of Alzheimer's disease I am using my brain every day to defeat this disease. I love my job as a Professor in Neurology at Harvard Medical School, Director of the Center for Alzheimer Research and Treatment at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, and especially my role in leading the A4 Prevention trial because I get to spend every day working towards finding an effective treatment. I am now working to focus on sex differences on imaging biomarkers of early Alzheimer's disease to try to understand why women are at higher risk.My brain is working everyday to save your brain (and my own!)."
  • DAGMAR DOLBY

DAGMAR DOLBY Founder of the Ray Dolby Brain Health Center

“I am determined to help wipe out Alzheimer’s. Ever since my brilliant husband received this devastating diagnosis I have tried to open the conversation about this disease, take away the stigma, and reduce the pain and helplessness for patients and their families. I have helped neurologist Dr. Catherine Madison at San Francisco’s California Pacific Medical Center create a Brain Health Center, now named after my late husband, to assist in the different stages of the disease, from diagnosis to management to emotional support. In parallel, I have supported the Alzheimer’s Association both financially and in their awareness building work, while my son David Dolby, makes seed stage investments at Dolby Family Ventures to empower talented innovators working on Alzheimer’s therapies and diagnostics. ” For more information on the Ray Dolby Brain Health Center
  • MERYL COMER

MERYL COMER President of the Geoffrey Beene Foundation Alzheimer’s Initiative

“Twenty years an Alzheimer’s caregiver: two decades later, there are still no therapies or better care options. Everyone's at risk. We can’t let AD make us all victims. I’m a proud co-founder of WomenAgainstAlzheimers, which networks its political clout to drive NIH funding, sex-based research, and care innovation; the 21st Century BrainTrust® coalition for brain health; and President of the research-driven Geoffrey Beene Foundation Alzheimer’s Initiative. 100% of proceeds from my book, Slow Dancing with a Stranger, support Alzheimer’s research. Let’s flip our collective pain and join forces with Maria. Own this fight with US.” Read my story: merylcomer.com
  • YASMIN AGA KHAN

YASMIN AGA KHAN

“How I am using my brain to wipe out Alzheimer’s? When my mother Rita Hayworth was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, I felt compelled to turn our private pain into a positive force. I founded the Alzheimer's Association Rita Hayworth Galas so that others would not have to face this disease alone. Since its inception, the Rita Hayworth Galas have raised more than $63 million and will continue to fight. ” Support the Rita Hayworth Gala
  • BRITTANY WELBY

BRITTANY WELBY

"My father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2013. It was a long hard journey to get his diagnosis and everyone told me along the way it doesn’t matter since there isn’t a cure, but that didn’t stop me. Being an only child and always being my dad’s little girl, I didn’t know what to do. My brain works for a marketing company by day and as volunteer by night to help promote awareness for Alzheimer's. I’ve worked so hard to raise as much money as I can so more research can be done for this horrible disease."
  • LEEZA GIBBONS

LEEZA GIBBONS

“I am using my brain to wipe out Alzheimer's by using my voice for change, my platforms for information and education and my family's legacy for connecting caregivers. After my mom and grandmom struggled with this cruel disease, I created what we wished we'd had, and that became Leeza's Care Connection; a place for family caregivers to call on their courage and summon their strength for the difficult road ahead. We offer free care for the caregiver and for over a decade, it's work that has filled my soul. ” Get involved with Leeza’s Care Connection
  • CRISTINA FERRARE

CRISTINA FERRARE

“I am using my brain to understand Alzheimer’s Prevention, risk factors, symptoms and stages and why diet and exercise play a crucial role in slowing down the early onset of Alzheimer’s genetic risk factors alone are not enough to cause the late onset form of Alzheimer’s disease, so researchers are exploring education, diet and enforcement to learn what role they might play in the development of this disease.”
  • CYNTHIA SIKES

CYNTHIA SIKES

"My husband had been in dementia for several years. During this time I have devised mind, body, spirit programs for him that consider his ever-changing condition. It has prolonged his memory, understanding, quality of life and made him feel relevant. The incredible care and attention he has received at the Motion Picture Home has had a tremendous effect on his quality of life and their caregivers have become a part of the family. He just turned 89 and we are on our way to Maui for a celebration of his life in a place he loves. A vacation filled with affection, touching and loving care so he can enjoy each day. That's what's important to us - "family" to the end. I am committed to helping support Alzheimer's research that could have effects on my family and so many others."
  • XUAN QUACH

XUAN QUACH

"I am using my brain everyday to care for and to advocate for my mother who is living with Alzheimer's. I want to ensure that she and others like her have the best quality of life possible despite the disease. Caring for my mother has inspired me to speak out and to work with the Alzheimer's Association to bring greater awareness and understanding of the disease. I will use my brain to continue to educate myself and others on what we can do to help those and their families living with this terrible disease."
  • JEN OLIVAS

JEN OLIVAS

"Three out of five of my grandparents suffer or have suffered from Alzheimer’s or dementia. Yes, I have five grandparents; of course, I am a direct descendant of four of them. Out of those four, only one has not been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Playing football with the Blondes Team for the first Alzheimer’s Association Blondes vs. Brunettes game in San Francisco became something for me to be passionate about. It became a way for me to give back to the generations that came before and give something to the generations to come."
  • JUDY TAYLOR

JUDY TAYLORVice President of Corporate Communications at Equinox

"This disease takes so much from people - their memories, their connection to others, often their dignity. As a daughter of a mother with Alzheimer's, I am committed to increasing awareness of this devastating disease, improving treatment for sufferers and, of course, finding a cure."
  • TRISH VRANDENBURG

TRISH VRANDENBURG

My mother was an indomitable force -- but no match for Alzheimer’s. I went from writing sitcoms to an Alzheimer’s activist. I co-founded USAgainstAlzheimer’s in 2011 to press for a goal here and abroad to stop Alzheimer’s by 2025. I co-founded WomenAgainstAlzheimer’s in 2013 to create a women’s movement because we are 2/3 of victims and caregivers – definitely a glass ceiling we didn’t want to break. I wrote an off-Broadway play, “Surviving Grace,” about my mom which played around the country; we’re now staging readings to raise awareness and money for the cause. It’s time to come out of the shadows and start marching. Join us at www.WomenAgainstAlzheimers.org
  • NICOLE SEXTON

NICOLE SEXTON

"I am using my brain to wipe out Alzheimer's by working with Princess Yasmin Agha Khan planning and supporting the Rita Hayworth Gala in New York, an event she started in honor of her mother. This event raises money that helps fund the research needed to find a cure for Alzheimer's. The Gala also raises public awareness of the disease, the ripple effects of which are priceless!" How can YOU help Yasmin Wipe Out Alzheimer’s? Support the Rita Hayworth Gala here
  • LYNDA CARTER

LYNDA CARTER

"I am proactive with diet and exercise. I keep up with the latest updates on Alzheimer's research and studies. By joining Maria's campaign, I hope to lend my voice to the chorus, in the fight to help stop this life-altering disease."
  • SAMANTHA TAYLOR

SAMANTHA TAYLOR

  • LAURIE BURROWS GRAD

LAURIE BURROWS GRAD

"I have used my brain to make a cure for Alzheimer’s possible! Together with my husband, Peter Grad, I began “ A Night at Sardi’s” in memory of my father, the late playwright/director Abe Burrows (Guys and Dolls), who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. Seeing this wordsmith not able to speak compelled us to join the fight against this horrific disease. Since its inception, “A Night at Sardi’s” has raised over $25 million for the Alzheimer’s Association, and still we must raise more to help accelerate the search for treatments, prevention methods, and ultimately a cure. " Support A Night at Sardi's and check out all the fun from past events here
  • ELIZABETH GELFAND STEARNS

ELIZABETH GELFAND STEARNS

“I am using my brain every day to wipe out Alzheimer’s. Since losing my mother, Judy Gelfand, raising money and awareness to save other families has been my life’s work. In the decade since starting the Judy Fund, we have raised over $5.1M, signed up over 500 ambassadors and been lifted by 1,600 generous donors. As a co-producer of the Oscarnominated “Still Alice,” I feel proud to have brought the reality of Alzheimer’s to so many. I have only just begun to use my brain to wipe out Alzheimer’s.”
  • MICHAELA “MIKEY” HOAG

MICHAELA “MIKEY” HOAGFounder of “Part the Cloud”

“I founded Part the Cloud to move the needle in Alzheimer’s research. Our mission is to fund research with the highest probability of slowing, stopping or ultimately curing Alzheimer's disease. In three short years, Part the Cloud has raised and funded over six million dollars in research grants through the Alzheimer’s Association. Part the Cloud is also about continuing the conversation to illuminate and educate our Bay Area community that Alzheimer's is not just a disease that affects the elderly, and that families and caregivers need as much support as the individuals living with the disease. Together we will Part the Cloud and wipe out Alzheimer’s.” Learn more about Part the Cloud
  • CAROL FANT

CAROL FANT

"I use my brain as the Chief Reality Officer at One Brave Cowgirl, a blog I started to help me and others deal with the devastation of Alzheimer's after my mother's diagnosis. I use my brain to share my experience, strength and hope regarding all the pain, frustration, loss, and love (yes, love) that accompanies dementia. By storytelling, One Brave Cowgirl gives us all a chance to learn new ways to cope through acceptance, gratitude and laughter. I lost my precious mom to this disease March 31, 2013, and I will forever fight in her memory." Check out One Brave Cowgirl here
  • LILIANA KASZUBA

LILIANA KASZUBA

"I have love and compassion for seniors and for people whose lives are touched by Alzheimer's. I come from a Hispanic background and I promote Alzheimer's awareness within the Hispanic/Latino community by providing information and support with the hope that a cure for Alzheimer's will be found soon."
  • LYNN POSLUNS

LYNN POSLUNS

“Women are at the epicenter of brain-aging diseases. 70% of Alzheimer’s sufferers are women. Women are twice as likely as men to succumb to dementia and depression and two-and-a-half times more likely to be providing care for someone else with a brain-aging disorder. Even correcting for age, women seem to be at higher risk. I used my brain to start the Women’s Brain Health Initiative (WBHI) to create education programs and fund research to combat brain-aging diseases that affect women." www.womensbrainhealth.org
  • SHEA SUMMERLIN

SHEA SUMMERLIN

"I used my brain to found All In for Alzheimer’s, a community initiative that strives to engage all people regardless of their ages or interests to be fully committed to ending Alzheimer’s. Whether you are a sports fan, an entertainer, or an accountant, whether you are an elementary school student, a young professional, or an older adult—there are many ways for everyone to be "all in" for Alzheimer's. Because memories should last a lifetime."
  • SUSAN DISNEY LORD

SUSAN DISNEY LORD

"I am using my brain to raise money for the Alzheimer's Association, to raise awareness, and to provide care and support for those caregivers who are struggling now. I am using my brain to convince our California State Legislators to increase funding for Alzheimer's caregivers and patients across the state. So many programs were cut during the financial crisis, it's time to bring them back. I am using my brain to Executive Produce a film about Glen Campbell's courageous decision to go public with his diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease. I am using my brain to show the film to as many people as possible to show them they are not alone and inspire them to laugh and live as much as they can in spite of this diagnosis."
  • ANNE SWEENEY

ANNE SWEENEY

"I will use my brain to help educate women about Alzheimer’s disease and always work to preserve the dignity of everyone affected by this staggering disease."
  • BARBARA KINNEY

BARBARA KINNEYPhotojournalist

"As a photographer on “The Shriver Report: A Woman’s Nation Takes on Alzheimer’s,” I got a closer look at how the disease affects individuals, families and caretakers. I was allowed into homes and care facilities to document people suffering from the disease and those family members and professionals who take care of them. I was overwhelmed by the dedication and compassion that these caretakers showed to their loved ones and I am hoping that through my photographs of these amazing people, that their stories will influence others on the devastating effects of the disease. I hope that my photographs for The Shriver Report influence people’s perception of Alzheimer’s, that it is a disease that impacts families not only physically but also emotionally. I guess if I had to describe my process, I use my brain to tell me where to point the camera while my heart tells me when to click the shutter."
  • DR. MONICA PARKER

DR. MONICA PARKER

"Women and families of color have limited access to comprehensive dementia diagnosis, management and care. As a clinician-researcher, I feel a profound responsibility to work towards better education, and access for all. I am using my brain to establish effective community partnerships that provide education about brain health, caregiving resources, advocacy and the promotion of diversity in clinical research trial participation."
  • DR. ANA MARIA CUERVO

DR. ANA MARIA CUERVO

“I have the privilege to lead a group of bright and highly enthusiastic young investigators at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and together we are using our brains every day to come out with effective ways to fight this devastating disease. Our strategy is to reactivate the systems that normally keep your brain cells clean and healthy, and use them to wipe out the disease in the Alzheimer’s patient brains. My daily inspiration are the patients, their families and the thousands of creative and dedicated strong women in our communities that have made saving the minds of our next generation their personal mission.”
  • JEANNE SHRIVER

JEANNE SHRIVER

"I am using my brain to wipe out Alzheimer's by responding to initiatives like Maria Shriver's campaign to wipe out Alzheimer’s, and other initiatives like it, that help to keep this very important issue on the forefront of research, policy and advocacy. Since this is a disease that affects the entire family, it is important for generations to battle it together. My children have had 2 grandparents diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, so I want them to be educated about the disease, to respect those who suffer from it, to support those who are fighting it and to guard themselves against it with healthy lifestyles. A recent article in the Washington Post touted that speaking a second language keeps the brain nimble. Now my daughter and I are taking a French course together so we make sure we are using our brains and keeping them nimble!"
  • SENATOR SUSAN COLLINS

SENATOR SUSAN COLLINS

"Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that takes a tremendous personal and economic toll on both the individual and family. Alzheimer’s has had such a devastating effect on 5.2 million Americans and their families, which is why I am committed to putting an end to this dreadful disease. Maria Shriver has been a tireless advocate for those who suffer from Alzheimer’s and their families and I commend her for her WipeOutAlzheimer’s effort."
  • CHRIS EVERT

CHRIS EVERT

"Over the past 25 years, I have partnered with the Ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida to invest more than $21 million in research-based prevention and early-intervention programs for at-risk women and children. Chris Evert Charities has provided support to programs that promote growth and development of prenatally substance exposed newborns, drug free healthy lifestyles for residents in public housing, substance abuse prevention education for school aged kids and resiliency skills for women transitioning from residential substance abuse treatment. Additionally, I have proudly awarded 39 Vitas Gerulaitis Memorial Scholarships to women who have worked hard to overcome significant challenges and need just a little help so they can pursue their educational goals. My charity team understands that addressing complex social problems, like addiction and child abuse, requires sustained commitment and a thoughtful approach that addresses the wide array of social determinants that impact individual, family and community outcomes."
  • DR. ALISON GOATE

DR. ALISON GOATE

"As a scientist I am using my brain to understand how our genes can predispose some individuals to develop Alzheimer’s disease. We work with families who by virtue of their genes are at increased risk of developing disease. We are using cutting-edge technologies to sequence genomes from these families to uncover new genetic risk factors that we will lead to novel drugs to treat and prevent disease. In the last couple of years we have turned this model on its head in order to ask why some people, despite being at increased genetic risk do not develop Alzheimer’s Disease. The goal of this research is to exploit these protective or resilience mechanisms that have arisen naturally in certain individuals to design therapeutics that protect people from developing Alzheimer’s disease. We challenge our brains everyday to use creative ways to understand this devastating disease."
  • MELISSA STEVENS

MELISSA STEVENS

"We need “all brains on deck” to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. I am using mine to understand the ecosystem of Alzheimer’s disease research – the unmet needs of patients and researchers, the roadblocks to progress, and the bright spots of innovation. Through our Philanthropy Advisory Service, I aim to catalyze more informed, empowered, and strategic giving towards these research priorities to accelerate the development of new therapies."
  • SHARI STAGLIN

SHARI STAGLIN

"Since 1995 I have co-founded two non-profit organizations united by the goal of accelerating research progress to provide better treatments and cures for all who suffer from brain disorders. We have raised over $210 million for research since we began. Some of the work is described in www.imhro.org and www.onemind.org"
  • MICHELE HERBERT

MICHELE HERBERT

"My brain is on a mission to fund research that will identify Alzheimer’s in women at it's earliest stages. Alzheimer's disease is something that we really have to champion as women. What would be amazing is to uncover why younger brains get ravaged by this disease and bring us closer to a cure. As a member of The New York Rita Hayworth Gala Steering Committee since 1987 and one of the first donors to the newly created Women’s Alzheimer’s Research Fund I am using my brain to wipe out Alzheimer’s." http://www.alz.org/galas/ny/overview.asp
  • MARY ROSE TAYLOR

MARY ROSE TAYLOR

"My husband died of Alzheimer's in 2007. Since that time I have worked as a strategic advisor to Dr. Allan Levey, Director, Emory Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, the only NIH-recognized comprehensive research center in the Southeast. In an effort to raise awareness about the disease, we created the tag line, "A Family Affair," in part to broaden the face of Alzheimer's to include every member of the family. To date, our marketing campaign and education outreach initiatives have achieved marked success in driving patients to clinical trials, generating millions in philanthropy, and focusing attention on quality of life issues for those living with Alzheimer's and related diseases."
  • ALEXANDRA STUDNICKY

ALEXANDRA STUDNICKY

"I am currently trying to secure a partnership with Converse to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s disease and encourage my family, friends, and colleagues alike to participate in the Walk To End Alzheimer's. Initially, I wanted to honor my grandparents at my wedding by asking my bridal party and 500 wedding guests alike to purchase purple chuck Taylor's in honor of Alzheimer's research. Then I decided to this idea one step further with Converse, and I hope that every participant in this year's Walk To End Alzheimer’s will be wearing custom purple converse sneakers for their loved ones lost to the disease. Through this initiative, my goal is to unify and recognize each and every advocate fighting to end this terrible disease."
  • KYRA ELZY

KYRA ELZYWomen’s Basketball Coach, University of Tennessee

"My husband and I started the SEC Win Challenge in 2013 as our way to fight against Alzheimer’s, an awful disease that has affected our loved ones. It continues to be an opportunity for us to honor my late grandmother Mary Elzy and Coach Summitt, both of whom are dear to our hearts. Watching them battle Alzheimer’s gives us the strength to continue the fight. We have raised over $65,000 for Alzheimer’s research in order to help find a cure. As Coach Summitt says, “WITH FIERCE COURAGE – TOGETHER WE WILL WIN.” http://www.patsummitt.org/
  • LEA THOMPSON

LEA THOMPSON

"I have been using my brain, my legs, and voice to help raise awareness, empathy, and money for Alzheimer's research for 19 years. I have so much gratitude for the amazing work these people do! And, I am proud to have been of service. Lets join together and GET IT DONE!"
  • MITRA MANSOURI

MITRA MANSOURI

"In 2008 my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. When the doctor gave her 3 words to remember, she was unable to recall them less than a minute later. Now I use my brain to wipe out Alzheimer's by reading books with my mom and asking her to read magazine articles out loud to me. It is important that we fight her disease together and I hope that before 2020 we will see a survivor of Alzheimer's disease."
  • PAMELA BROWN + PHYLLIS GEORGE

PAMELA BROWN + PHYLLIS GEORGE

"We use our "brain power" to bring awareness and raise money for research through our public platforms. We advocate separately and as a team by speaking to groups and writing stories about what we have learned from losing our loved one to this insidious disease -- my grandmother and my mother's best friend."
  • CAMILLE RUVO

CAMILLE RUVOCo-Founder of Keep Memory Alive

"There is not one day that goes by that I don’t think of Alzheimer’s and all neurodegenerative diseases that take away one of the most important parts of who we are as women. I am the co-founder and vice chairman of Keep Memory Alive, which supports the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brian Health. I am responsible for a fundraiser called “Power of Love”. Each year celebrity chefs cook, fine wine is tasted, entertainment from around the world is enjoyed and a live auction is conducted that raises millions of dollars each year since 1996. I run a rodeo fundraising weekend in Northern Nevada each summer, where the local cowboys come to show off their awe-inspiring horse and bull riding skills. Emeril Lagasse comes to cook and legendary musical talent come to life and entertain. I just started a program locally called “Penny for your thoughts”, where locals can leave their loose change in stands throughout Las Vegas. This is a community outreach as well as a fundraising effort…letting folks know that every penny counts!" www.keepmemoryalive.org/
  • MORELLA KAYMAN MBE

MORELLA KAYMAN MBEFounder of the Alzheimer's Disease Society

"The best use of my brain was in actively helping to found the Alzheimer’s Society thirty five years ago, due to my husband being diagnosed at the age of 51. I wanted to find a way to help people living through the journey of Alzheimer’s, making sure that together with their families, they would be made to feel included in what was happening. Due to the ignorance then of the medical profession and ignorance and fear of the general public, this had previously been the opposite. The founding committee worked tirelessly to get the Society off the ground and I am truly proud of the achievements and services that the Society provides and it's active role in research." www.alzheimers.org.uk
  • ROSALYNN CARTER

ROSALYNN CARTERFounder of the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving

"As a pioneer in the field of caregiving, I know that when caregivers suffer, the quality of care they can provide diminishes. These unsung heroes, the majority of whom are women, work tirelessly to look after those who are frail elderly or living with chronic illnesses. The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving offers training and resources for community programs to help caregivers for those with Alzheimer’s Disease, and these are available to everyone through the institute website." www.rosalynncarter.org
  • THE WOMEN OF SIGMA KAPPA

THE WOMEN OF SIGMA KAPPA

"Over 150,000 women of Sigma Kappa use their brains to Wipe Out Alzheimer’s by challenging each other to raise awareness as well as funds for this dreaded disease. We are voices strong, hearts united."
  • CECILIA ATTIAS

CECILIA ATTIAS

"I am thankful to Maria for continuing to raise awareness, and for her dedicated effort to wipe out Alzheimer’s. I am a true believer in the importance of diet and exercise, both physical and mental, to maintain a healthy brain. I am fortunate to be able to train my brain daily in running the Cecilia Attias Foundation for Women and learning how to develop new and improved methodologies in the quest for positive change for women across the globe."
  • KRISTEN BUCKLEY

KRISTEN BUCKLEY

"My father has been battling early onset Alzheimer’s for almost 10 years. We noticed symptoms when he was 53 years old. I’m now on my fifth year of fundraising for Running 4 Answers, a 5K/walk that benefits the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund. Over the years, our team “Bunch of Buddeys” has collectively donated over $10,000 for the cause and had as many as 40 people join the event. My family is lucky that we noticed my father’s symptoms early and the medicines have slowed down the progression of this devastating disease. I fundraise and raise awareness, so other families can try and prepare like mine." www.running4answers.org/why-this-cause
  • DINA SCHINNERY

DINA SCHINNERY

"Working in a Nursing/Rehabilitation Facility, I work with Alzheimer’s/Dementia residents each and every day. All of my life I have heard of Alzheimer’s and for 20 years, I have watched some of my own family members slowly progress in this disease. It is a sad and heartbreaking thing to witness but there is a strong and powerful fight to find a cure and wipe it out altogether. I am so grateful that my position as a Therapeutic Recreation Leader affords me the honor and the privilege to be part of a program that allows me to help those suffering with this disease cope on a daily basis through repetition and lots of love."
  • LIZ JOHNSON

LIZ JOHNSON

"I lost my grandmother to Alzheimer's Disease in 2009. I'm not referring to the year she passed, but the year she stopped being the grandma I had admired and adored for a lifetime. A woman so classy and kind, she made an impact on everyone she encountered. Since then, my mission has been to do all I can to ensure this disease doesn't take away another person I love. I use my brain to raise funds and advocate for the disease. My brain and body allow me to create and execute fundraising events and initiatives, join forces with others in the Alzheimer's community to raise awareness, share my story, and be a leading voice of Alzheimer's for my generation. Most importantly, I use my brain to remember. To remember one of the most beautiful women I've ever known - my grandmother, Anita Sarle " act.alz.org
  • NAVEENA JASPAL

NAVEENA JASPAL

"As the Development Relations Specialist at the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute, I feel blessed to have been given a platform to be able to put my experience into words and my journey in the messaging and materials that we present to our various audiences, especially the families of those affected by Alzheimer's disease."
  • BROOKE WESTLAKE

BROOKE WESTLAKE

"I watched Alzheimer’s rob my grandma for 10 years before it took her life while she was in my arms on February 24, 2012. I was her primary care taker. Through the healing part of grieving, I decided to give back in several areas. Today I take free portraits of Alzheimer’s patients and share their stories along with a blog. I have created the annual purple dignity dinner to raise money for Alzheimer’s in Reno, Nevada www.purpledignity.com
  • ANN NAPOLETAN

ANN NAPOLETAN

"Watching my mom live, and ultimately die, with Alzheimer's turned my world upside down. My hope is that by sharing our story, I can help other caregivers realize they aren't alone. I use my brain, energy, and passion to raise awareness, support families who are on this journey, and educate those within my circle of influence. It's absolutely crucial that we use our collective voice to cultivate a greater sense of urgency among the masses. The time to end Alzheimer's is now. I am the creator of The Long and Winding Road, a volunteer and moderator for the Facebook Support Community of USAgainstAlzheimer's and a founding member of ClergyAgainstAlzheimer's. I have also been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living with Alzheimer's & Other Dementias and Seasons of Caring: Meditations for Alzheimer's & Dementia Caregivers"
  • SALLY ROSENFIELD

SALLY ROSENFIELDSenior Vice President Cure Alzheimer’s

"As a senior vice president for Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, I am using my brain every day to help finance high-potential research that may prevent, slow or reverse Alzheimer’s disease. To end Alzheimer’s, we believe it’s imperative to fund research that is innovative, collaborative and results-oriented. The clock is ticking and we can’t afford to wait." www.curealz.org
  • LIZ HERNANDEZ

LIZ HERNANDEZ

  • ROSANNE VANELLA

ROSANNE VANELLA

"I learned at a very young age how Alzheimer’s & Dementia can devastate not only the person who has it, but also their family and loved ones. I witnessed helplessly my great grandmother and grandmother suffer through this debilitating disease, and now my father has been overtaken by it as well. I’m an innovator, instigator + agitator and my brain works to support & educate the millions of caregivers & families. I am founder of FamilyAffaires.com, an online community that provides families & caregivers with education support, resources and a voice on matters involving health and family crisis. Through my work as a Professional Family Mediator, I help families come together in designing plans to help all those affected."
  • SARA BERMAN

SARA BERMAN

"As an MD/PhD student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I am planning a career that combines both patient care and clinical research. Currently, I am pursuing my PhD on the vascular contributions to Alzheimer's disease, hoping to better identify the disease in it's pre-clinical stages so that treatment can be initiated before neurons are irreparably destroyed. I also work in a Memory Disorders Clinic that frequency sees patients with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. I am using my brain to unite these research and patient experiences to work towards a finding a cure for this devastating disease."
  • NANCY MEYER

NANCY MEYER

"I am part of the Adult/Children Study at Washington University in St. Louis.  I have had three “Lumbar Punctures” (i.e. spinal taps), filled out numerous questionnaires, participated in incredibly boring psychological evaluations and tests, been scanned within an inch of my life (CT/PET scans and MRIs).  I’m a “control”.  My husband is also a test subject, as a child of an ALZ victim. My mother-in-law died of ALZ. It’s all part of helping scientists figure out the underlying causes of ALZ.  Once they know the causes, rather than the symptoms, they can look for treatments.  I don’t expect a cure w/in my lifetime."
  • ELAYNE FORGIE

ELAYNE FORGIE

"Watching caregivers crumble under the weight of caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease caused me to use my brain to create the Alzheimer's Care Resource Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the unique needs of caregivers --- whenever they reach out on their caregiving journey, at the time of diagnosis, when the road gets rough, when tough decisions must be made, through end of life care. We provide a safe, warm and comfortable place for caregivers to turn, while embracing, empowering, educating and guiding them through the changes and the challenges of Alzheimer's disease." http://www.alzheimerscareresourcecenter.org/
  • KIRSTEN PEISSEL

KIRSTEN PEISSEL

"My grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's when I was 11 years old and passed away last summer after a 14 year battle with the disease. I watched my grandfather, the love of her life, take care of her until her last day. I am using my brain to be an advocate and voice of a younger generation of people affected by Alzheimer's. I am a participant in Blondes vs. Brunettes NYC, a women's flag football league created to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer's disease. I am driven by so many unique and talented women who share the same heavy heart and dedication to Alzheimer's disease as I do, to honor not only my grandmother, but all grandmothers and all grandfathers, all mothers and all fathers, and all families affected by this disease."
  • SHANNON GUZZO

SHANNON GUZZO

"In April 2015 I am XC skiing to the North Pole, pulling a 90lb sled.  In addition to the physical training required for this extreme adventure, I am engaging my brain to creatively use the expedition to raise awareness, and raise funds, to find the cure for Alzheimer's.  This will be the "memory walk of memory walks", almost literally!  I strapped on skis for the first time last December, so my skiing may very well resemble walking. I call my project Polar Inspiration.  The entire project is presented on FB Polar Inspiration, and on my website www.polarinspiration.com.  Support is arriving from all over the world, from Lebanon, Australia, and Scotland to name a few. Thank you to all of the dynamic ladies whose brain power WILL achieve a victory and cure for Alzheimer's!"
  • CJ RYAN

CJ RYAN

"I am an advocate for the Alzheimer's Association because Alzheimer’s disease threatens the future of my family. It has already touched our lives indelibly. My husband’s dad died of Alzheimer’s in 1999 at the age of 78. His dementia-related care over the last six years of his life cost more than half a million dollars. An uncle and aunt have also died of Alzheimer’s and another aunt and uncle are currently in nursing homes with dementia care units. In March more than 800 people living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers and advocates from across the nation will gather in Washington DC for the 27th annual Alzheimer’s Association Advocacy Forum. We will engage in the democratic process and appeal to members of Congress for action on Alzheimer’s disease."
  • JAYNE KENNELLY

JAYNE KENNELLY

"Being the Nurse Manager at The Nathaniel Witherell on the Specialized Dementia Unit, I can honestly say, "I love my job." Although it's not an easy responsibility and each day brings different challenges, my main focus is the well being of my patients. Dementia and Alzheimer's don't only affect my patients, but, also their families. I make a conscious effort to ease their emotional pain as they watch their loved ones go thought the different stages of this debilitating disease. I use different techniques and years of experience to therapeutically achieve this goal. This isn't just my job, it's my passion and I feel that the most important tool that I use is my heart." http://www.thenathanielwitherell.org/
  • MELANIE CLARK

MELANIE CLARK

"My Purple Mind was established 8 years ago when my grandmother was diagnosed with the Alzheimer's disease.  My desire and passion to give and become a philanthropist for Alzheimer’s has grown stronger and stronger over the years.  My Purple Mind is used as a resource for my family and others that are new to Alzheimer's world. My grandmother is one of the many faces of Alzheimer's, I NEED to be her voice, I WANT to be her voice, my PASSION to be her voice will never go away. I am not satisfied with the dim light that shines on Alzheimer’s and I feel that together WE can create a brighter light to shine."
  • DIANE KOUNALAKIS

DIANE KOUNALAKIS

"As a caregiver and a strong supporter of the SF Bay Area Walk to End Alzheimer’s, I walk, I fundraise, I raise awareness about Alzheimer’s and I don’t stop talking until people listen. My beautiful mother lost her ability to wipe out Alzheimer’s but I haven’t. I believe that we are voices for those who no longer can speak. Together, we can work towards a cure and I strongly believe that when woman are working together for a common goal, the job will be done. We can no longer quietly talk about Alzheimer’s. We have to raise our voices loudly so that people understand that a cure needs to be found. The more we talk about it and keep the awareness front and center, the more people want to help. "
  • HEATHER ROBINSON

HEATHER ROBINSON

"My name is Heather Robinson and I have been a caretaker for over 6 years to my grandmother, Trudy Livesay.  My grandma loved arts and crafts and it was always a challenge for me to find things for her to do. That is why I started Trudy's Trinkits. We provide a variety of affordable arts and craft kits designed specially for people with Alzheimer's and Dementia.  It's one less thing that caregivers need to research, shop for and assemble. Our goal is to get sponsorships and to provide these kits free of charge to people who need them. "
  • DR. HELEN KALES

DR. HELEN KALES

"I use my brain to wipe out Alzheimer’s by working to create better ways to assess and manage the behavioral symptoms of dementia. While memory is thought of as the primary symptom of dementia, behavioral symptoms (depression, delusions, wandering, repetitive questions, etc) are nearly universal and tend to create the most difficult management problems for people with dementia, their families and other caregivers and providers. We need to change the paradigm from knee-jerk medication use for these symptoms to a more person- and caregiver-centered approach."
  • DIANE MANSOUR

DIANE MANSOURFounder, Honorary President Alzheimer’s Association Lebanon

"Not being a physician or a researcher, it is hard for me to wipe out a disease, however, what I use my brain to do, is to disseminate knowledge and create awareness so that, together, we can wipe out the stigma of AD. I do this as a profession as well as in my daily life. I long for a time where "shame" will no longer be the first word associated with AD, and it will be replaced with love, understanding, and acceptance. I am generous with advice and travel miles to help caregivers in need of support and knowledge. My mother’s disease helped me find my life mission!"
  • SWOOSIE KURTZ

SWOOSIE KURTZ

"I have used my brain, my heart, & my soul to take care of my mom for the past 8 years, and to write a book about it that I hope will make people laugh & cry & feel not so alone. She was always there for me, & it has been a blessing & an honor to be there for her. We are joined at the heart."
  • DR.PAMELA PEEKE

DR.PAMELA PEEKEThe Peeke Performance Center for Healthy Living

"Just as men and women need a heart and lung evaluations as they age, they also need an ongoing evaluation of their brain health. I use an integrative medical approach in which the inter-connectiveness of the body-mind is recognized and optimized. Meditation, fun, social support, healthy whole food-based nutrition and physical activity are supported in a framework of healthy and sustainable lifestyle habits. I also stress the importance of constantly continuing to learn, expanding the mind’s capabilities, and always viewing life’s journey as a continuum of loving, laughing and living deeply. "
  • LINDA BURNS

LINDA BURNS

"As I’ve watched Alzheimer’s rob my mother of everything that mattered to her in life: family, socializing, independence...as well as watching my 82-year-old father as her primary caregiver...I’ve become an advocate. I am honored to be a contributor to Family Affaires, on online community outreach. I want to share our day-to-day experiences and strive to provide support...and perhaps a little humor...to those caregivers who are living this. I am using my brain by trying to educate myself to triggers and risk factors and am continually learning how important diet and exercise are in slowing down the onset and progression. I want to learn all I can so that I may feel as empowered as I can in this ongoing battle."
  • SOPHIE OKOLO

SOPHIE OKOLOFounder “Global Health Aging”

"I am using my brain to wipe out Alzheimer's by putting a focus on health issues affecting older adults. Global Health Aging was launched to feature a broad range of news, research and original commentary on aging and health issues from around the world. My brain has allowed me to gain an education in gerontology, work with various organizations that help older adults, and improve my advocacy skills to champion research on Alzheimer's disease. As a global public health problem, the need to know more about this disease is crucial, whether or not people are personally affected by it."
  • PAULA SPENCER SCOTT

PAULA SPENCER SCOTT

"I wrote the book “Surviving Alzheimer's: Practical Tips and Soul Saving Wisdom for Caregivers” partly as a tribute to my dad, gram, and two mothers-in-law who all had dementia -- and because in my work as a journalist, I'd collected so many amazing insights from families and experts on how to get through each day. Until we Wipe Out Alzheimer's, families affected can't possibly get enough practical help AND emotional support." www.paulaspencerscott.com
  • LORI SHARP

LORI SHARP

"I use my brain to wipe out Alzheimer's by using my VOICE.  I use social media (Twitter,Facebook and Instagram) to share research tips, personal stories and to reach out to my congressman.  I also participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer's, I was a Grand Champion Fundraiser last year. I am a volunteer on the Sponsorship committee for this years 2015 Fresno-Clovis Walk to End Alzheimer's.  I am also an Alzheimer's Association Advocacy member and a member of AIM. I must say just getting home from this years Forum in Washington DC was the most amazingly rewarding experience of my life.  I can't wait to attend next year."
  • MONICA HELTEMES

MONICA HELTEMES

"I used my brain when I recognized the only activity and hobby items for people living with Alzheimer’s were children’s toys and decided to change that.  I now use my brain to design adapted puzzles, games, and books that are simplified but made for adults. And I use my brain to educate and share appropriate activity ideas, to allow people with Alzheimer’s to stay engaged and active, even as their abilities decline. " www.mind-start.com
  • NANCY WURTZEL

NANCY WURTZEL

"I’ve been an Alzheimer’s caregiver since I was a teen, first for my grandmother and decades later for an uncle, my mother-in-law, my own mother and my father.  All of these relatives died from Alzheimer’s.  Sadly, now I assist my sister as her husband is in the moderate stages of the disease.  My Alzheimer’s experiences prompted me to launch a blog, Dating Dementia, in 2010.  I also write essays about Alzheimer’s and other issues for many websites and print publications, including MariaShriver.com, the Huffington Post, BlogHer, Third Age and more."
  • BRITT EKLAND

BRITT EKLAND

"I am very proud to be Patron of Alzheimer’s Society and I use my brain to wipe out Alzheimer's in the memory of my mother, who died of the disease at the age of 78. She probably had it in her late 50's, early onset Alzheimer's I now believe, but at that time we were ignorant about her symptoms, putting it down to her getting old. Once the doctors had diagnosed her we were told , there is no cure, just go home and do the best you can. This was 1980 and very little was known about Alzheimer's. I have spent the last 22 years trying to do the best I can, to take away the feeling of shame and bring awareness of this devastating illness." www.alzheimers.org.uk
  • KATHRYN SMITH

KATHRYN SMITHDirector of Operations, Alzheimer’s UK

"I've seen the devastation dementia can bring to people and their families, so I use my brain to grow and develop services to support people, innovating and bringing new ideas to improve people's quality of life." www.alzheimers.org.uk
  • RENEE FIRBY

RENEE FIRBY

"With several family members who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s I have been a caretaker and an advocate since I was a teenager. One of the main reasons I became a Speech Therapist was to help treat people who have Alzheimer’s and other forms of Dementia.  After working in several hospital settings, I realized that I could do more to help people so I started my own Speech and Occupational Therapy business called Jackson Jade in Torrance and Long Beach, California. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s (yet!) I use my brain to help teach patients and their caregivers little tricks that may help them through the daily challenges they may face."
  • NADA SAVITCH

NADA SAVITCH

"I am leading a project in the UK about women’s experiences of dementia. We have heard captured the voices of women who have Alzheimer’s, women who are family caregivers and women who make up the majority of the care workforce in the UK. Alzheimer’s disproportionately affects women and women should make a stand together – across the oceans. We have heard the stories, experiences and opinions of many women though our website – http://www.dementiawomen.org.uk/"
  • KATHRYN SMITH

KATHRYN SMITHFounder, Senior Resources Hub

"My brain has allowed me to develop tools to help with caregiving; a tremendous gift and responsibility.  My mother had dementia for over 17 years and my dad was her primary caregiver and I supported him until our roles reversed.  When people take on the role of caregiver, most are inexperienced and not prepared for their journey.  Therefore, I’ve taken my experiences and founded Seniors Resource Hub and created tools to allow for better caregiving and better living."
  • VERNA JONES-RODWELL

VERNA JONES-RODWELLMaryland State Senator (Ret.)

"The life altering impacts of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias have caused devastation in my family for the past three generations.  However by: creating programs to educate and support caregivers,  sponsoring  legislation and advocating for funding as a State Senator and  collaboratively working with others I am turning  stumbling blocks caused by these diseases into stepping stones toward a world without Alzheimer’s."
  • LYNDA EVERMAN

LYNDA EVERMAN

"With 16 other caregivers and their loved ones, I participated in an awareness project which was the work and inspiration of fellow advocate, Bakhus Saba of Canada, to create the video, “Alzheimer’s/Dementia Knows No Borders.” I served as convener to the ClergyAgainstAlzheimer’s network and co-edited a book of interfaith meditations, “Seasons of Caring: Meditations for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers.” I am a board member of B.A.B.E.S. (Beating Alzheimer’s by Embracing Science) and a founding member of three national networks, ActivistsAgainstAlzheimer’s, WomenAgainstAlzheimer’s, and ClergyAgainstAlzheimer’s. Together we are working to demand the urgency and commitment needed by our political, business and civic leaders to achieve the bold but doable goal of ending Alzheimer’s disease by 2020. I’ve written to every member of Congress, asking them to make the vision of the National Alzheimer’s Project Act a reality, to dedicate sufficient funding to advance research, and to cosponsor the HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act and the Alzheimer’s disease semipostal."
  • BILLIE HARMAN

BILLIE HARMAN

"I graduated from Stanford and then I was a hippie and activist in the 60s. Later on I graduated with honors from UCDavis medical school and was a successful doctor for years after that. And became a scuba diver when I was 62. Now I am 72 and I have early-stage dementia. I am using my brain by urging diagnosis of Alzheimer’s at a much sooner time then we presently do, and improving the diagnostic tools– which are not sensitive enough to pick up the more subtle symptoms of early-stage Alzheimer's - when we still have our brains. I also support self-help groups for people with early-stage Alzheimer's. And encouraging us that we still have worth, that we still have things to contribute, we can make a difference. I am still me. We are helping change the face Alzheimer’s and reduce the stigma."
  • KYNDEL LEE

KYNDEL LEE

"I lost my Grandmomma to Alzheimer's four years ago, and my Memaw is currently living with dementia.  A woman's brain is her lifeline- memories hold everything we need to be happy and healthy. I'm using my brain to fight this disease, to take a stand for my grandmothers, for myself, for my children, and for my children's children. I envision the end of Alzheimer's. And to help acquire that vision, I work as an Alzheimer's Association ambassador and I captain Team Brunette in Blondes vs. Brunettes- Columbia, South Carolina. Together, we can Wipe Out Alzheimer's!"
  • DR.LESLEY FLYNT

DR.LESLEY FLYNT

"I am a Physician with a special interest in Neurodegenerative disorders. I use my brain to study the brains of others through the use of Nuclear and Molecular imaging which can aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease. Few people are aware of the many brain imaging agents that are available, which is something I would like to change, and can hopefully do so to help "wipe out Alzheimer's."
  • DEBORAH LYNN STRAFUSS

DEBORAH LYNN STRAFUSS

"I am using my brain, my heart, my voice and my soul to stop Alzheimer’s by writing and sharing my caregiver experiences in my upcoming book On Angels’ Wings, A Journey Through Alzheimer’s with My Mother, donating proceeds from the book and raising funds for research through Reiki for Alzheimer’s and Caregivers and by speaking out about the cost of Alzheimer’s through all available venues, from political to personal." On Angels' Wings
  • TERRY BERRY

TERRY BERRY

"I am committed to using my voice to share my story and the story of so many fighting this disease. I am here and want to be heard and know together women can wipe out Alzheimer’s."
  • GIGI VORGAN

GIGI VORGAN

"I have written seven books on brain health, memory improvement and Alzheimer’s prevention, but I never fully understood the emotional devastation of Alzheimer’s until my mother was diagnosed six years ago. Staying close to family and friends helps give me the support I need to be there for my mom. To protect my own brain, I get daily exercise and mental stimulation, eat healthy and reduce stress through yoga and meditation. When I keep in mind the mental benefits of healthy lifestyle choices, I feel empowered to keep it up."
  • JILL LESSER

JILL LESSER

"My mother was a lioness of a women and now she has Alzheimer's roaring inside her like a trapped lion. I have been her caregiver for eight years.  It is both a heartbreaking experience and an honor to be able to care for her. Motivated by my personal experience, I joined the Board of UsAgainstAlzheimer's, a nonprofit organization dedicated to stopping this disease. I've grown inpatient with the current level of research funding for Alzheimer's and the lack of priority that it takes on the national stage. Today, I am proud to serve as the President of WomenAgainstAlzheimer's, a member of USA2 to amplify the powerful voice of women - a group that is largely affected as both the patient and caregiver. We know women can change the world so we provide them a platform to speak up, advocate for research funding and promote research challenges to find a cure."
  • KAREN HENLEY

KAREN HENLEY

"Nominated by her daughter Courtney: For eleven years, my mom tirelessly cared for my dad, Mike, as he bravely fought Young Onset Alzheimer's Disease. He was diagnosed at age 36, just as our family was starting to grow. Alzheimer's hurt us all physically, emotionally, and financially, but through it all, my mom remained a source of inspiration and hope, and she did everything with a smile and a laugh. Her advocacy began on the home front: she was determined to get my dad the best care possible with the limited funds we had to work with. She succeeded, and we were able to care for my dad at home throughout his illness. She soon took her advocacy to a whole new level as she started speaking out on numerous TV, radio, and newspaper programs. Her work with the Alzheimer's Association, as well as local care organizations, has earned her numerous awards and recognitions, but that's not the goal for her. Her goal is to help create a world without Alzheimer's so that no other families like ours will have to face this disease. She genuinely is an inspiration."
  • ESTHER DEY

ESTHER DEY

"I am an advocate of women with Alzheimer`s in Ghana and the current Executive Director of Alzheimer`s Ghana. I wish to be part of Maria Shiver`s Wipe Out Alzheimer`s Challenge campaign. Currently I am organising women`s groups in Ghana to campaign against abuse and stigmatization of women suffering from Alzheimer`s and Dementia.My team also engages the media to sensitize women and communities about ways to reduce Alzheimer`s challenges in Ghana. Our organisation`s Website address is www.alzheimersgh.org"
  • Štefanija Lukič Zlobec

Štefanija Lukič Zlobec

"I have personal experience with Alzheimer disease (husband 50 years old – Alzheimer diagnosed). Since 2015 I am a president of Spominčica –Alzheimer Slovenia. With my public work I’ve succeeded that dementia and Alzheimer Cafes in Slovenia are recognisable in Slovenian society and now take place regularly in more than 60 places. I’ve presented the idea of Alzheimer Cafes in one of the meetings in Brussels. On my proposal Slovenia hosted 25th annual conference Alzheimer Europe in 2015 and we are lobbying to adopt Slovenian National dementia Strategy."
  • SALOME CHIRA

SALOME CHIRA

"I started using my brain when i founded AT HOME HEALTHCARE KENYA which is a community based organization after noticing that most of our seniors were neglected, mistreated, kept in isolation and even being killed in the name of witchcraft. People not knowing its dementia / Alzheimer's. I sold a piece of land to help me raise funds to create awareness, educate and support caregivers. Kenya being a low income country with very few resources to support this noble cause. I have decided to use my brain to get more people and organizations to partner with to make sure we do research, educate and support caregivers in Africa. www.healthcarekenya.org"
  • DY SURHAYA

DY SURHAYA

  • PUSHPA JAYAKODY

PUSHPA JAYAKODY

  • NANCY EMERSON LOMBARDO

NANCY EMERSON LOMBARDO

"I am using my brain to wipe out Alzheimer’s through helping organize the Alzheimer's Association, running support groups, chapters and improving our state and national advocacy effort, and later, running innovative pilot interventions to treat or reduce risk of Alzheimer's, some funded by the national Alzheimer's Association. Today, continue to innovate practical lifestyle programs, by integrating current research, to promote BRAIN HEALTH, including an evidence-based nutritional program called Memory Preservation Nutrition. Goal is to help individuals and organizations improve nutrition and other evidence-based lifestyle to reduce risk of MCI, Alzheimer's, and other dementias as well as to slow down cognitive decline and improve quality of life of those with diagnoses. For example, Amazing Place, a day program for people with Alzheimer's participants in Houston Texas has 100% changed the menu, recipes, and pantry ingredients to now serve brain healthy food, and assisted living companies have innovated healthier menus and snacks."
  • EMILY CARTON

EMILY CARTON

"I use my brain and my heart to create a home and environment where people with Alzheimer’s Disease can be seen and felt beyond the disease. At Thetford House, we find ways to connect and to touch each other lives. While my hope is that one day there will be a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, my work is to see the wholeness in people and to create a world which honors them beyond what their minds can remember. http://www.thetfordhouse.com"
  • NILANJANA MAULIK

NILANJANA MAULIK

"I am from the City of Joy, Kolkata- India. My dementia journey began in 1994,USA and I went back to India in 1998 to set up the Alzheimer’s association. I also headed the National association(ARDSI) as the Secretary General and was part of the Dementia India Report that is striving to make all the difference in my country. I use my brain that can still reason and remember to care for people who cannot. Organization - Alzheimer's And Related Disorders Society of India, Calcutta Chapter, India www.ardsikolkata.org"
  • MAUREEN MELETIS

MAUREEN MELETIS

"My Mother has been suffering from Alzheimer’s for the past 8 years. I have been with her throughout her steady decline. We are still blessed with glimpses of the warm, witty mother, grandmother and friend she has always been. Sadly, as the years pass those moments are happening less often. As an Alzheimer’s Advocate, I use my brain to wipe out Alzheimer’s by continuing to use my voice and continue to bring awareness to this horrific disease that affects so many of us. I am the co-chair for the 2015 Central NH Walk to End Alzheimer’s, a table host for Reason to Hope breakfast as well as participating in the Care to Cure."
  • ANNA CATALANO

ANNA CATALANO

"I became involved with the Alzheimer’s Association when my mom was diagnosed in 2006 and she moved into my home. My sister and I joined a local support group, and through that, we became familiar with the Association and the resources it provided. I was a member of the local board for six years, and served as Board Chair for one of those. I’ve had a Walk team every year since 2007, and have been the top fundraiser in the Fort Bend Walk to End Alzheimer’s every year since then! I involved both of my children in the Walk when they were in high school, and they served as Youth Chair for our local Walk for three years. This year I’ll be putting another Walk team together to raise awareness and funds for research and local care/support for victims and their caregivers."
  • BRENDA BOUCHARD

BRENDA BOUCHARD

"I have been caring for my husband who has Younger Onset Alzheimer's Disease for the past ten years and continue to do so today. His grandfather, mother, seven of his mother's siblings and two of his brothers have succumbed to this disease. My 88-and-a-half year old mother lives with me and also has Alzheimer's Disease. I know firsthand the pain of watching someone slowly slip away by the ravages of Alzheimer's Disease. I use my brain daily to figure out what it is that I can do to make a difference, bring attention to and change the culture around Alzheimer's Disease. Two years ago, New Hampshire was one of only 13 states without a plan in place for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia. Although we are very private people, I overcame any apprehension I had about bringing our story public and testified before our State legislature three times, sharing intimate details of our story, to support the passage of a bill related to Alzheimer's Disease. In August, 2014, the bill was signed by our Governor, putting in place a plan for New Hampshire. I now sit on our State's House of Representatives Permanent Subcommittee for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia."
  • MEI MEI HU

MEI MEI HU

"Mei Mei Hu has used her brain to Wipe Out Alzheimer’s by co-founding Give To Cure, a non-profit organization dedicated to curing Alzheimer’s disease through crowdfunded clinical trials. She has personally witnessed the journey one takes to cope with this terrible disease, which takes a serious emotional and financial toll, and ignites unparalleled feelings of sadness, helplessness and guilt. The sheer level of economic and social burden Alzheimer’s places on society fuels her fight and she believes a lack of funding should not block patients from promising treatments. She works to empower those who care about Alzheimer’s to feel that they can really make a difference, and to ultimately find a treatment or cure to this disease. Mei Mei has also helped to develop a proprietary vaccine against Alzheimer’s which is currently in clinical trials."
  • JAMIE TYRONE

JAMIE TYRONE

"Nominated by Lynda Everman: Courage, compassion, determination and resilience - these words just barely begin to describe my friend and fellow activist, Jamie Tyrone. Jamie’s genetic status (She carries 2 copies of the ApoE 4 allele.) puts her at a 91% life time risk of developing Alzheimer’s. For most of us that would be a cause for despair, but for Jamie, it is a call to action. She understands all too well the urgency of this crisis. She is the Founder and CEO of B.A.B.E.S., (Beating Alzheimer’s by Embracing Science), a charitable organization dedicated to raising awareness and funds and recruiting participants for clinical trials to advance research in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. She founded B.A.B.E.S. for those of us who share a kindred bond to create a way to make sense and meaning of all that we’ve experienced, and to add a bit of joy and peacefulness along our journey. She is also a founding member of Women Against Alzheimer’s. While Alzheimer’s is a grim and unforgiving disease, Jamie always finds ways to encourage and inspire."
  • MARA BOTANIS

MARA BOTANIS

"My book is being used by Project Lifesaver International (a non-profit comprised of retired law enforcement and first responders) to train law enforcement agencies nationwide on crisis communications involving persons with dementia. I serve as a co-moderator on a nationwide online support group for caregivers (USAgainstAlzheimer's a group dedicated to finding a cure) and on a recent mission trip to China I got to meet and invite the Secretary General of Alzheimer's Disease China, Dr. Lu-Ning Wang to share her research with ResearchersAgainstAlzheimer's to help unite global scientific efforts in the quest for a cure. I help the National Dementia Action Alliance make lives better for persons living with dementia currently as a work group co-chair and travel the country speaking to as many caregiver groups as I can. My grandfather was the kind of person in our small town that everyone went to first when they needed a hand with something because he never refused to help others. I wish my grandfather had never had to go through what he did with Alzheimer's, but he would have been the first one to want to help others through it. I try to do that every day now on his behalf."
  • SARAH WEBER

SARAH WEBER

"As the Founder of Sweb Marketing, I use my brain for creativity plus purpose. My goal is to build interest in products, services, and causes for a targeted group of people. In 2012, I lost my grandfather to Alzheimer's after a 10+ year battle with the disease. Each day I spent with him reminded me of how precious every moment can be. That is exactly why I started the #IKnowOne Challenge, which strives to ignite camaraderie and raise awareness for those impacted by this horrible disease."
  • LIZA PIERCE

LIZA PIERCE

"Creating awareness through blogs and social media, that’s one of the many ways I use my brain to help wipe out Alzheimer’s. I write about my experiences, my connection, and my desire to find a cure and stop the stigma associated with Alzheimer’s. I volunteer my time with the local Alzheimer’s Association too. https://medium.com/@amauiblog/walk-to-end-alzheimer-s-0n-maui-76f12e350cb5"
  • PAULA ABRAHAM

PAULA ABRAHAM

"Nominated by her daughter Alicia: My mother has helped care for her mother (my grandmother) for over 10 years when she was diagnosed with Dementia. She joined our local Alzheimer's and Dementia board and started to help raise money to find a cure. My mother was recently diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's in October 2014. Since then she has been on a mission to bring awareness, raise money, and find a cure. She has done numerous news interviews to bring awareness and is in the process of gathering our entire community to participate and donate to our annual Alzheimer's and Dementia walk. She has been in contact with numerous institutions to begin studies on experimental drugs to help further available research. She is not taking this diagnosis as a life sentence, but a chance to make a difference, while bringing awareness to help in finding a cure!"
  • KATE SWAFFER

KATE SWAFFER

"As a person living with a diagnosis of a younger onset dementia, I am an advocate, activist and agitator for change, and for the voice of people with dementia. Also an innovator and past care partner for three people with dementia, I am co-founder and current Chair of Dementia Alliance International, the peak body and also the voice of people with dementia. I am using my brain to reduce the symptoms of my own dementia by continuing to study at university and am about to apply for a PhD with the University of Wollongong in Australia. I promote education and awareness with a daily blog and have just started a new website called Living Beyond Dementia. Since being diagnosed, I have achieved three tertiary degrees; a MSc (Dementia Care), BPsych and a BA. Prior to dementia I had a Grad Dip Grief Counseling, have been a Chef, and am a Retired Nurse. I hold a current position as Honorary Associate Fellow with the Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, and work as an Author, Advocate, Speaker, and consultant in dementia. I continue to live beyond a diagnosis of dementia. I am also a Board member of Alzheimer’s Disease International and Chair of the Alzheimer’s Australia Dementia Advisory Committee."
  • SIATTA ADAMS

SIATTA ADAMS

My brain allows me to think of ideas to raise money around my work place, it allows me to organize a plan and enact it. My mental power along with thirty other women raised over 40K last year, and together we gave Alzheimer’s a kick in the backside. My brain allows me to be an active contributor to the world around me, improving little aspects of life in truly momentous ways.
  • SARAH ROBB OHAGAN

SARAH ROBB OHAGANPresident of Equinox

When you've had the painful personal experience of watching your parent become afflicted by this terrible disease, you are determined to help find the cure. There is research that suggests decisions we make early on in our lives to commit to exercise, healthy nutrition and consistently good sleep can improve our chances of avoiding or delaying the onset of Alzheimer's. It's my hope is to share this emerging knowledge with families everywhere.
  • LOUISE MOSES

LOUISE MOSESRetired Middle School Asst. Principal

My mom and grandmother both had Ahlzheimer's. It is on my mind everyday... It is important that we beat this horrible disease.
  • CHRISTINA HAWKINS

CHRISTINA HAWKINSHolistic Health and Fitness Coach

My grandmother passed from Alzheimer's. My dad is beginning to show signs of it. His first cousin has it, severely. My mother's first cousin has it, severely. Patients of Alzheimer's waste away very similarly to patients of chemo. I know; I have witnessed both in my family. The more educated we become, the more we can help those who have it and prevent others, including ourselves, from developing it. It is becoming more and more prevalent and we need to know why and stop it! I am in the sandwich generation, now, caring for my aging parents. This not how I thought my life would be. If this continues, who will take care of me? I don't want that! I want to stop this disease. I will not be a victim!
  • Jean Marie Smiley

Jean Marie SmileyMother, Grandmother, Alzheimer's Advocate

As a Daughter & a former Certified Nurse’s Aide, on January 1st 2012 I started a movement, a Facebook page, determined to honor the memory of my beloved beautiful Mother who battled Alzheimer’s disease for 4 yrs. along with her kind and much loved husband who battled dementia! I’m shining a light to heighten awareness, offer support, encourage care with dignity and love along with helping to eliminate the stigma of all dementia types! Together with others I stand in the fight for a cure! For myself, my Children, Grandchildren and everyone, I think about our future every day without any type dementia in it! Sincerely, Jean Marie Smiley https://www.facebook.com/Alzheimers-Disease-Dementia-Public-Enemy-1-261764007230180/ https://www.facebook.com/JMarieSmiley
  • Amy R. Nelson, PhD

Amy R. Nelson, PhDNeuroscientist and Alzheimer's Advocate

One of my most difficult life challenges was losing our father to Alzheimer's disease when he was 57 years old. Over the last 10 years, I have met so many others who have also suffered the wrath of this devastating disease, and the number of people that Alzheimer's impacts continues to grow. I use my brain to try to 'fix' and advocate for Alzheimer's. This disease must be stopped!
  • SUE MERRICK

SUE MERRICKRetired (Federal Government)

I want to fight Alzheimer's in my lifetime, both in men and women -- but especially in women! I want to join the Big Wall in this fight!
  • LOUANN FERRARO

LOUANN FERRAROreal estate agent

very interested in be educated and spreading the word, I'd love to get involved. Lets save precious minds
  • Gincy Heins

Gincy Heinsauthor, teacher, volunteer, advocate, wife, mom

This fight is personal. My husband was only 55 when he was diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. I'm doing everything I can to raise awareness of Alzheimer's especially in younger people.
  • Lucy Aguilar

Lucy AguilarDaughter, Sister, Mother, and Wife

Fighting Alzheimer's for all my love ones. Always remembering the strong women in my family that have been effected and their lives forever changed.
  • MARIE PASINSKI, M.D.

MARIE PASINSKI, M.D.

Although I have cared for patients with dementia for many years, losing my mother to Alzheimer's has given me a deeper understanding of its true devastation. I am deeply committed to helping every woman minimize her personal risk factors for Alzheimer’s and advocating for a cure.
  • Cynthia Toussaint

Cynthia ToussaintFounder and Spokesperson, For Grace

"As a woman who’s lived with severe chronic pain for 35 years, I was shocked to learn that Klonopin, the medication hundreds of thousands and I take for relief of that pain, could threaten our lives. We’ve just learned it can cause Alzheimer’s. We women in pain already lead lives that are turned upside down - lives that were once full and rich are now plagued by the fatigue, depression, social isolation and career loss triggered by constant pain. Now our minds and memories might join this cascade of loss. Losing my ballet career to pain that left me bedridden for a decade catapulted me into starting the nonprofit For Grace where we promote better care and wellness for women in pain. It’s critical that we make our community aware of this devastating side effect of benzodiazepines. Alzheimer’s is the last place any of us can afford to go."
  • ENMA ESPINOZA

ENMA ESPINOZA

I am Enma and I am caring for my husband Frank who is in the advanced stages of dementia. In 2009, at 62 years of age, he was diagnosed with this terrifying and painful disease and I have been caring for him ever since. Frank and I have been together for 46 years. He is the love of my life who has always given so much and has treated me with the utmost dignity and respect. Frank is a very noble man of integrity who always took care of me and now I feel that it is my turn to take care of him. Being a caregiver is a difficult journey but with the support of Home Care Assistance / Women's Alzheimer's Movement it reminds both me and Frank that we are not alone."
  • LORI LA BEY

LORI LA BEYCare Partner for Mother with Dementia, founder of Alzheimer's Speaks

I have found the biggest gift I will ever receive in my life was being able to care for my Mother during her 30-year journey with dementia. Her insights and wisdom shared will never leave me and I made a commitment to her to share her gift to me with others. Alzheimer's Speaks has several platforms in which we do this: Radio, videos, blog posts, various initiatives like becoming dementia friendly, the Purple Angel Project and the Memory Cafes to name a few. In addition, I travel the nation doing keynotes, training and consulting on dementia as it is my passion to shift caregiving from crisis to comfort.
  • STEPHANIE LYNAM

STEPHANIE LYNAM

Lost my mom to Alzheimer's in September. I will do all I can to help spread the word and wipe out this disease.
  • LAURIE MANTZ

LAURIE MANTZFounder of Dementia Training for Life

I have seen this disease destroy individuals, families, communities. We must stop it!
  • DOMINIQUE FRADIN-READ

DOMINIQUE FRADIN-READMD

Ready to support your community
  • RHONDA BUYNAK

RHONDA BUYNAKVP DinkerBop

I am co-founder of a start up, DinkerBop, aimed at people living with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Our goal is to alleviate some of the stress the caregivers are faced with and bring joy to those with the disease. I think of this as my legacy.
  • MELISSA CUTHBERTSON

MELISSA CUTHBERTSON

Walking through this time with my father as he declined, life adjustments had to be made. I knew the time would come to relocate my parents from Oklahoma to Tennessee. In a conversation, I asked him what it would take to get him to move to Nashville. His response was, " I want my cows to come with me". Before the transition to Tennessee I spent significant time researching doctors, a place to live, and land to lease for the cows. Part of the lengthy transition was taking on the management of commercial property, selling livestock, being the point person for the auction of the ranch, having garage sales, assisting in the estate sale, the house, and an old red truck. I chose to keep my full-time job and leave my part-time job so that I could make myself available through the transition.

The emotional side impacted my life in various ways. My parents were private which made it difficult to allow health care professionals to come to their home. My sleep patterns were altered. The more educated about the disease I became, the better I was able to adjust. I tried to focus on the positive changes. Each declining stage became a "new normal". I learned to celebrate the little things. My father, a pharmacist and friend to many, showed me in order to make a difference in life you have to be kind and serve others.

I am recognizing the importance of building public awareness of this complex disease. I am determined to make a difference. I know my dad would be proud of the choice I made to serve. This is why I am asking Congress to approve an additional $425 million increase in the government’s Fiscal Year 2019 budget. Please join me in asking Representatives to support an additional $425 million in Alzheimer’s and dementia research funding at the NIH.

  • KRYSTAL L. CULLER, DBH

KRYSTAL L. CULLER, DBHAtlantic Fellow | Director, Center 4 Brain Health

Through brain health education, it is empowering to witness behavioral changes among participants that shift their personal brain health to a priority and not an option in their daily lives. These lifestyle choices could effectively reduce the incidence of dementia and associated healthcare costs. I am the inaugural Director the first, non-pharmacological, non-hospital based based brain health center located on a senior living campus in the United States. I am also an Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health with the Global Brain Health Institute at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland. Collaboratively, these roles have provided me additional knowledge and skills to support aging adults with brain health concerns through the development of a variety of programs and services for our multiple award winning center. www.center4brainhealth.org www.gbhi.org
  • TRISH WALKER

TRISH WALKERSr. Consultant

Grief, it is often said, is love that has no place to go, but for me, it is something that needed a place to go. So, I made Mom these promises: • Honor, always remember, care, and fight until the day that no one’s family must experience the devastation this disease causes • Raise awareness, provide care and comfort to those affected and raise funds • Encourage others to become advocates to end Alzheimer’s
  • VANESSA VIDAL

VANESSA VIDALNational Director- Transcendental Meditation for Women

Transcendental Meditation (TM) for Women offers TM to women to reduce stress & improve health, including improving the efficiency and orderliness of a woman’s brain, keeping us more alert, vibrant and astute at any age.
  • JENNIFER FREEMAN

JENNIFER FREEMAN

I'm honoring my Dad in the fight against Alzheimer's. He was a head high school football coach here in Kansas for 35 years. He had 5 players go onto play in the NFL. He beat prostrate cancer & had quadruple heart bypass surgery, but didn't beat Alzheimer's. My dad died from Alzheimer's on December 18, 2015 at the age of 84. To honor his life & help bring more awareness to this horrible disease, I'm having a book written about his life which amazon is going to publish & print.  I also am trying to get 500 Kansas residents signed up for a Kansas Alzheimer's license plate. My dad will always be my HERO & I want to help other families going through this Alzheimer's journey!💜

  • KIRTI RANCHOD

KIRTI RANCHODDr

I am a neurologist from Johannesburg, South Africa. My once-vibrant grandmother has Alzheimer's disease, which has led me here. My focus is on memory disorders, and how to prevent this. In pursuing this interest, I began to appreciate that a healthy memory requires a healthy brain. I aim to improve awareness on how to prevent dementia, protect memory, and promote brain health (www.memorability.co).
  • JANE BRIGHT

JANE BRIGHT

I have a family history of Alzheimer's so have been personally affected by this insidious disease. I watched my mother suffer as she lost herself, her identity, her very being to the ravages of Alzheimer's. Sign me on for what it takes to eradicate the condition. Jane Bright
  • KASEY C LEHN

KASEY C LEHNMemory Care Manager

Everyday, I see the impact of Alzheimer's and Dementia on families, caregivers, and those who live with this disease. My calling is to educate, assist, and love those who are suffering.
  • DIANA BILLINGS LANDIS

DIANA BILLINGS LANDIS

Thank you for organizing this movement. I watched my beautiful, active mom live with AD for 12 years.
  • KATHY SCHLEY

KATHY SCHLEY

I'm ready to serve in the effort to find a cure.!
  • AVERY T. STONE

AVERY T. STONEAuthor

Alzheimer's changes lives - it changed my mother's and mine when I was her caregiver. I am so grateful to people like Maria Shriver who are champions for the caregiver and getting word out about this devastating disease - taking care of women. I want everyone to be aware of this website and its helpful, inspiring, and positive message. Just about everyone either has a loved one or knows someone who has Alzheimer's - this website is for everyone.
  • TAYLOR POLEN

TAYLOR POLEN

Changing the Future of All minds
  • TRINA BROWN

TRINA BROWNConsultant

My sister just passed away on December 5, 2017, after 12 years of Frontotemporal Dementia. She was 63 yrs old and I promise her I would continue to be the advocate for the FTD and publish her story. I would love share and learn more to educate the communities and the people of Alzheimer and Dementia. Purpose Driven, Trina Brown
  • LAURA DEMARIS

LAURA DEMARIS

To the bravest women I know. One who fought the disease and the other who cared for her while she fought.
  • KELLY ULRICKSON-FUGINA

KELLY ULRICKSON-FUGINA

A LITTLE ABOUT ME I walk to help reclaim the future for millions By participating in the 2018 Alzheimer's Association The Longest Day & Walk to End Alzheimer's. I'm committed to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer research, care and support. Currently, more than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's and that number is expected to grow to as many as 16 million by 2050. Our future is at risk unless we can find a way to change the course of this disease. WHY I WALK: I became involved with the Sacramento Walk To End Alzheimer's fifteen years ago. My motivation? The day former President Ronald Regan passed away. I formed a team "Kelly's Heroes" in memory of my Grandfather Paul Lamoure who passed away with Alzheimer's. When I first set out to educate myself about the disease I was astonished by how many people do not fully understand what Alzheimer's disease is. This is when I took the challenge from a fellow Alzheimer's Champion, Maria Shriver... I decided to be a VOICE. I would help create awareness, and make Alzheimer's "Top-of-Mind". Today, I am an Alzheimer's Champion. This is the 15th year that Team Kelly's Heroes will walk in the Sacramento Walk to End Alzheimer’s! During the Walk To End Alzheimer's season it is truly amazing to see the thousands of heroes who are helping to change the course of Alzheimer's disease. I have been touched and honored at the generosity of the donations received which help support Alzheimer's Care and Research. WHAT I DO TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE The Alzheimer’s Association needs our help year round, so not only do I walk with my team in the Sacramento Walk to End Alzheimer's, I participate in The Longest Day, attend Advocacy programs throughout the year, create fun events benefiting the Northern California Alzheimer's Association that gets our community involved. In 2016 we brewed a beer with Yolo Brewing Company on the Longest Day and labeled it "Forget-Me-Not Session IPA. Perfect for our hot Sacramento Summer months! The end of Alzheimer's disease starts here!
  • BARBARA L NEWLAND

BARBARA L NEWLANDDirector of Community & Business Partnerships, RVNA

Each day, our minds are a gift. Tomorrow brings another chance of decline. Love your mind today and everyday you have a clear day, rejoice!
  • KRISTEN WILLEUMIER

KRISTEN WILLEUMIERNeuroscientist

I have been impacted by Alzheimer's disease on a personal level and I have studied Alzheimer's disease in patients on a professional level. I am passionate about educating the public on ways in which we can prevent Alzheimer's disease as well as helping individuals and families to cope with the diagnosis, empowering them to take the steps needed to support the mind, body and spirit of those impacted by the disorder.
  • DEBBIE HAYES

DEBBIE HAYEScaregiver, wife, and manager at a local non-profit

Just today I found your website! thank you for the fresh, vibrant, passionate resource! My Dad was diagnosed over 12 or 13 or more years ago. Time has slipped by, I can't even keep up. He's been in a facility outside the home now since the summer of 2013 and before that my Mom cared for him at home for 10 years. It's been a long journey and he's still here. Thank you for fighting so hard and for helping so many!
  • MARY WRIGHT-MCCOURT

MARY WRIGHT-MCCOURTCaregiver/advocate/Ambassador/daughter

Alzheimer’s recently took the life of my Dad after a 14 year battle and my Grandma passed away after a 15 year battle ....this cruel disease has plagued my family for almost 30 years. I bleed purple and try to bring awareness to our cause with everyone I meet by being a huge advocate with our local Alzheimer’s Association. I’m also very active on a State & National level.
  • MARY JO HOLLORAN

MARY JO HOLLORANNurse Practitioner

My mother and her mother suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. I want to eradicate this horrible disease which affects every person in the family along with the family member who is affected. I don’t want to see this suffering go on generation to generation.
  • KIMBERLY FONDAW

KIMBERLY FONDAW

The first time my mother looked at me as a complete stranger -- and not as her daughter -- is etched in my heart forever. As her primary caregiver, I bore the brunt of her anger and confusion. Alzheimer’s took her from us 15 years ago. In her final moments, I promised her I would fight this disease any way I could. For the past 12 years, I have gone to Washington D.C. to attend the Alzheimer’s Forum -- nine of those years I have been the ambassador representing Kentucky’s First District. 

The first Alzheimer's Walk after my Mom passed I was an army of one. That grew as I formed a team of co-workers. Each year the team has multiplied and I am proud that in 2017 we were 5th in fundraising for the State of Kentucky raising over $17,000.

Summer of 2017, I travelled to Peru where I joined over 35 global Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s advocates as part of The Ambassador Project-Machu Picchu. She is with me every step of this journey. I will continue to talk the talk and walk the walk in this fight to #endalz. I miss my best friend.

  • CINDY HOFFMAN

CINDY HOFFMANAlzheimer's Activist and Educator, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

I work in the field of aging and want to get involved with educating and supporting caregivers and their loved ones who are diagnosed with this deadly disease. My family has our own personal story with being diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. Our family witnessed the devastation of how the disease can affect the one you love and the others who care for the one you love.
  • SANDRA GILBERT

SANDRA GILBERTGroup Care Manager

As a Registered Nurse and Dementia Coach I have worked with people living with Alzheimer's for over 25 years and a majority of them have been women. Thank you for identifying this reality and making a real change. Sandra Gilbert Australia
  • MARIA MARTINI DENEAU

MARIA MARTINI DENEAUHealthcare Professional, Advocate & Writer

"I won't stop till it's cured" https://thewomensalzheimersmovement.org/alzheimers-humor-maria-deneau/
  • SANDY BRABECK

SANDY BRABECKYoga Instructor

My mother has dementia.I want to be part of the solution.
  • ANNA MARIE FRANK

ANNA MARIE FRANKWellness Specialist

My journey with Alzheimer's started when my great grandmother was diagnosed. I remember as a child visiting her some days she would know us and others she wouldn't. The compassion and lessons I learned back then about taking care of your elders and continuing to support a loved one, even when you may feel they dont know you anymore is so important. I have chosen to get tested for the markers that could tell me if I have a predisposition for the disease. I have worried I too may fall victim. I have committed my adult life to exercising, eating healthy, and keeping my brain sharp by continuing to learn and develop as an individual. I know this will help! I love this movement and all the beautiful women involved! Together we CAN make a difference!
  • BETH VAKNIN

BETH VAKNINTeacher

My father had Alzheimer's and died in 2016. His last two years were heartbreaking as we lost little pieces of him, one by one. My mother and siblings and I watched, helpless to stop it. We must find a cure!
  • JEANE GORDON

JEANE GORDON

I am dealing with a loved one with Alzheimer's now.
  • JANE

JANEJourney

My mother had dementia. She and I have always been extremely close. She was an incredible woman. I will honor her name by volunteering in my community. I hope I can tell her story to many one day.
  • LINDA SCHECK

LINDA SCHECKUCI MIND Development Director

As a woman, I helped care for my father-in-law, who died from Lewy Body Dementia in 1984, long before much was known about the disease. As a woman, I joined the staff of the Alzheimer's Association of Orange County in 1987 and remained there until 2004, and as its executive director, for the last nine years. As a woman, I cared for my mother who suffered from vascular dementia for her last ten years. As a woman, I now raise funds for research at Orange County, California's only Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, UCI MIND, one of only 30 in the nation funded by the federal government. As a woman I know that research is at the front lines, our main force to defeat the neurological disorders that are coming at us. As a woman, I have seen the painful burden of Alzheimer's disease on our families, our communities, states, the nation and the world. In my personal, private life and in my public life. We must defeat it and as a woman, I know we have the power to do so. For our families, our children and our grandchildren, research for treatments and a cure is the force we must employ to bring Alzheimer's disease to an end.
  • NELITA CASH

NELITA CASHAlzheimer's Ambassador OK District 2

I am the face of Alzheimer's. I am the daughter and niece to eight family members lost to Alzheimer's. I teach at an elementary school in Muskogee Oklahoma and it has been my mission since my father's diagnosis in 2006 to educate our students about Alzheimer's and provide resources to families serving as caregivers or affected by Alzheimer's. I have helped establish a semi-professional, annual hockey game to raise funds and awareness for the disease and I participate in the yearly Walks to End Alzheimer's. I will not stop fighting this disease until or unless it stops me.
  • JULIET KING

JULIET KINGFor my Mom

Joining the Big Wall for my Mother, Molly Patricia
  • ANNA HAN

ANNA HANProfessor of Law

I lost both my grandmothers to this disease and am losing my mother slowly. I don't want my daughters to go through this.
  • TANYA SILLAR

TANYA SILLARMrs

I just love what you're doing Maria and all of those that are joining with you. I'd be so honoured to come join this group of outstanding women. I lost both of my much loved parents to different forms of dementia and I'm determined not to be another statistic or any of my family members for that matter. I know I have the APOE4 gene, and I also have 4 gorgeous daughters. There is so much ignorance out there about the disease and sooo many are just not interested in bettering their health or for that matter the health of their brains. We are so let down by our medical system. Love the work of Dr Dale Bredesen. He gives me joyous hope 🙂
  • EDNA CONCEPCION

EDNA CONCEPCIONCertified Financial Advisor/ President, Heritage Investments & Retirement Planning, Inc.

Thank You, Ms. Maria, for advocating this matter that is seldom discussed -- yet, devastating to families. Our grandmother Romana lived until she was 99. She had Alzheimer's since she was 77 years old. So, the 20 years she lived were colorless, uneventful years. We still miss our grandma to this date.
  • JODI BROCKINGTON

JODI BROCKINGTONCaregiver/Daughter/Advocate

We simply MUST find a cure...
  • MICHELLE BANZET

MICHELLE BANZET

I believe we will win the fight against Alzheimer's! I am committed to educating, empowering and staying involved until the day this disease is no longer present. I have been on both sides as I worked on a research team studying early indicators of Alzheimer's, and I cared for my grandmother who experienced her worst fear "losing her mind". We will get to the bottom of this together!
  • MARYANN MAKEKAU

MARYANN MAKEKAUAuthor & Speaker (founder of Hope Matters)

Too often families going through Alzheimer’s, or other types of dementia, are isolated. I aim to change that with come-as-you-are “neighborhood memory cafes”. Inside easily accessible cafes, care-partners and loved ones can enjoy a family meal, immerse in the arts, let go of stress and refuel with hope. The idea bloomed four years ago, and it stuck. Now, there are four places in my community for families to enjoy a respite, simultaneously for the caregiver and the loved one. As the disease progresses, our loved ones (like my mother) lose the ability to use their voice, attend to their own needs, and so much more. The neighborhood memory cafes provide a dedicated peaceful space to get out and about, while it is still safe to do so. It is my heart's desire to see others replicate such cafes. Every family living through Alzheimer's deserves places of acceptance and support within their larger community. I firmly believe that painful isolation ends with purposeful immersion.
  • CLARITA POSADA

CLARITA POSADAProduct Sales Manager, Diagnostic Imaging, Ultrasound and HCIT

I have very good friends that have a wonderful Alzheimer's foundation in Colombia, and I want to join you to support the movement. My mother passed away five months ago and was in the early stages of the disease. It was a real eye opener!
  • LISA ZIMMER

LISA ZIMMERDivision Head of School

Passionate about prevention and a cure! Lost my father after a nine year battle at 72.
  • ROBYN PARKS

ROBYN PARKSSaving Our Brains Through Grace

I lost my mom on 9/27/2017, which her name is Grace, and I want to join the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement through Grace. As her spirit is speaking to me, in helping with research on a cure to end this horrible disease that affects the lives of our loved ones and caregivers of our loved ones, we watch this disease attack and destroy the brains of our loved ones and wipe out years of memory of their lives. I want to be a voice and a part of a movement to contribute and raise funds and awareness for caregivers who are lending their time to care for a loved one due to lossed wages and financial strains. I want to be a voice to help other families and caregivers receive the support financially, which will relieve the stress from caregivers, and he/she will be able to care and give their love and the care and attention they need daily. My mom was a very strong, faithful, and spiritual mother. Even through her fight with dementia, she stood strong and allowed God to use her as a purpose to help her children see through all the pain of this horrible disease, which can affect your life and rob years of your memory. If we keep the faith in God and know that God is right by our side through every trial and tribulation to the end, we will be awarded with the morning star and given the crown of life after death. My mom is now at peace and enjoying life in her new home with God ....RParks
  • SHEILA GIORDANO

SHEILA GIORDANO

For Janalee, my mom, my hero
  • DIANA LI

DIANA LI

My mother has been experiencing short-term memory issues and I'm anxious to learn more about what my sister and I can do to slow or prevent this disease from attacking us the way it has our mother.
  • WENDY MOORE

WENDY MOOREFounder of Dementia Prevention Northwest

I have seen the devastation Alzheimer's has on families and our loved ones who have been inflicted with this disease. I personally have cared for my own grandmother and great grandmother and hundreds of others with dementia. I have made it my personal goal to help others learn what they can do to sharpen their minds and create better brain health so they can escape this devastating disease.
  • IMOGENE

IMOGENE

Alzheimers is a silent tsunami that is coming along our way. Let us be strong, gather each other's strength and support one another to find a cure of this massive illness.
  • DEBORA LACADIE LABREE

DEBORA LACADIE LABREEMother/Grandmother/ Employee/ daughter of Alzheimer’s

I do not want to be another victim, another burden, another lost mind.
  • ALICE PALMQUIST TERLECKY

ALICE PALMQUIST TERLECKYRetired Life Insurance Executive

Thank you for raising awareness about this issue and for continuing to support research and efforts to find a cure.
  • CHRISTINE ELECTRA WILLIAMSON

CHRISTINE ELECTRA WILLIAMSONAdvocating for the Future

I'll never forget the last time I saw my great granddaddy. Our whole family had gathered to celebrate is 100th birthday, and I remember sitting with him the majority of the party. Grandaddy and his wife, MiMi Anne, lived in my family's neighborhood growing up, so I was always very close with him and my great grandmother. He held my hand so tightly and asked where I was in school, 7 or 8 times, and I always smiled and answered his questions each time. Finally after awhile, he looked down at my hand, and saw that I was wearing some of MiMi Anne's jewelry that she had willed to me. He squeezed my hand a little tighter and looked up at me with tear filled eyes and said "You still wear them!" I swallowed the knot in my throat, because I knew how much he missed her, and replied "Every Day." With a weak Smile. He squeezed my hand again and patted my arm, and I stayed with him until well after the presents had been opened and the party was over. Grandaddy passed away later that year. I refuse to let this keep happening to grand children everywhere, because everyone deserves the chance to say goodbye, and to make memories with their loved ones.
  • GLADYS MARTINEZ

GLADYS MARTINEZDr.

My mother was afflicted with AD at age 68, I diagnosed her and grieved her slow decline then. A few years later, I had cancer and a friend called me to see how I was doing and said "thank God your mom doesn't understand" and this was the cruelest thing of all--- my mom was needed then more than ever and her slow decline into forgetfulness did not help me forget her need. She did teach us, my children and nieces and nephew and brothers; that a life well lived, is never forgotten even when the memory fails.... the essence is kept in the heart of those they touched.
  • AMY WALTON

AMY WALTON

My mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's at the age of 58 years old. She has lived with this disease for the past 9 years and moved into a memory support unit 1 1/2 years ago. Alzheimer's has stolen so many moments a mother and daughter should share. I was 27 years old when she was diagnosed and have needed my mother so many times since then but she's not available to me like I need her to be. I had my first baby this year and I find caring for my mother and my baby is very similar. In a way, caring for my mother helped me prepare to be a mother. I am proud to be a supporter and fighter for a cure for Alzheimer's.
  • VIRGINIA NAEVE

VIRGINIA NAEVEBlogger on Alzheimer's caregiving, supporter of research at UCI MIND

The best thing we can do is to get the word out there about Alzheimer's disease and the need for a prevention or cure. I was my Mom's caregiver for 8 years during her Alzheimer's and saw firsthand what this disease does to a loved one's brain. It's not just memory loss. It is loss of ability to function as an independent person. It is personality change. Eventually, it is loss of ability to feed oneself and breathe. It's horrible. We need to do everything we can to stop this 5th leading cause of death. I miss my Mom. My blogs are on my website, www.anewpathformom.com.
  • VALERIE SALTER

VALERIE SALTER

I lost a sister to this disease 8 years ago. She was 65 years old. I did not realize until now that Alzheimer's affects women to a greater degree than men. I want to do more and learn more.
  • DARLENE SCHELL EKLUND

DARLENE SCHELL EKLUND

My mom passed away in 2012 and had severe dementia. It was so frustrating and sad to watch and live through her decline. Your organization and all that you are doing to research and guide all of us on steps we can take to slow down and (hopefully) prevent this horrible disease is great and much needed. Thank you!!!
  • KAT HARTLEY

KAT HARTLEYProject Manager Healthy Brains Initiative, Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health

I first met the face of Alzheimer's disease when I was six years old. It has since robbed two generations of my family both emotionally and financially. The toll of this disease has inspired me to advocate for vital research funding. And while scientists seek answers, I am committed to engaging our community about the importance of maintaining brain health. As women, we are mothers, teachers and caregivers - the nucleus of families and communities. We, together have the passion and power to make it "all better" for future generations.
  • NATALIE EDMONDS

NATALIE EDMONDS

I lost my Dad to Alzheimer’s. I believe in the importance of exercise and diet to prolong brain health and want to promote awareness of the importance of training your brain as well as your body. I consult with the National Academy of Sports Medicine in an effort to educate people about the newest research in fitness programs to keep your brain, as well as your body, healthy as you age.
  • FRANNE GOLDE

FRANNE GOLDEPresident, frannegolde.com

I am the face of Alzheimer's. My Mother had Alzheimer's, my Father is living with Dementia and my Husband has been diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer's. I've seen first hand what this devastating disease can do. It affects everyone. I am using my brain to spread awareness, be involved in any way I can and help others by telling my story and taking away the stigma, letting people know they are not alone. I have committed my company to donating a portion of proceeds to various programs that support people living with Alzheimer's. Currently I sit on the board of Music Mends Minds, a nonprofit that helps people immediately, through the power of music. While we wait for a cure.....
  • MELISSA WILLIAMS

MELISSA WILLIAMS

We weren't prepared for what the doctor had to say that day. And yet here we are, 5 years later, and through a course of medicines that did nothing, and dealing with the anger of having to grieve my mother every single day as this disease slowly takes more and more of her away from me, I find hope in being able to give care for my mother. Even though I'm only 35 and should be having BBQ's and loud sleepovers for my kids, we all do whats best for mom, and that is to love her the way she need to be loved on any given day. I quit my job and have been with her full time for over 3 years. I find so much peace and strength in volunteering, educating myself and others, getting involved, and I plan to continue my work long after my momma leaves this earth. I know later, that every time I see a hummingbird, it'll be her, saying hello and making sure I'm okay. She's a natural caregiver. I don't see death stopping her from that.
  • SARAH BRENNAN

SARAH BRENNAN

My name is Sarah Brennan. The last time you heard from me my grandmother, Gail was one of the 5.8 million people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, on January 18, 2018 after battling Alzheimer’s for 11 years we lost her. Those last few weeks of my grandmother’s life was one of the hardest things I’ve ever witnessed. My grandfather, Francis who was the caregiver for my grandmother’s entire 11 years of Alzheimer’s had to watch his best friend and life partner forget him daily and wither away in front of him and there was nothing any of us could do. When you lose someone to Alzheimer’s you lose not only that person but a little of yourself. Watching someone die of Alzheimer’s is indescribable. Seeing someone forget to swallow, breath, chew food and speak is hard enough in itself; but watching that person completely loose themselves, not know who they are, where they are and what is happening to them is truly tragic. I will never forget the day my grandmother passed. I spent most of the day lying in bed with her just praying she knew I was there; knew she was loved and knew it was okay to stop being strong and just let go. I had a couple moments with her during her passing that will forever be engraved in my heart. The day before she passed, I was sitting with her and kept telling her over and over again “I love you”. Somehow my grandmother managed to mumble back to me “I know, I love you”. Hearing those words for the first time in years was such a happy moment even though it was during the saddest moment of my life. You never truly know how much those words can mean to you until the person can no longer say them. Life can be hard and sad when loving someone with Alzheimer's. You have to remember to live in the moment, watch closely, and most importantly listen to what your loved one is really saying. And just when you think all is lost it will happen. It may be as little as a glance or as big as hearing your name but you'll feel it when it does. And though it may only be a brief second you'll know that at that very moment you were there together. There like you used to be, there enough to remind you that your loved one is still there. Just that little feeling can make all the difference and remind you all the heartache and hard times are worth standing by your loved one know matter how heartbreaking it is. Always remember that they are still that same person they once were. Though they may not act the same, I believe that the heart stays the same.
  • DEIRDRE

DEIRDRENARDI

So excited to be a part of the WAM family. My mother is living with Alzheimer’s at the age of 89. It has been one of the biggest heart breaks and challenges of my life.. it has been a labor of love to try and do my best to serve and care for her. Fortunately she still knows me and can express her love and gratitude to me. We still laugh sometimes and sometimes she gets frustrated and angry. I am extremely concerned with where the memory care industry is with their struggle to hire caring and qualified nurses and CNA’s. Not to mention the expense of memory care. My goal is to bring more awareness and to lobby for government assistance to families with loved ones with Alzheimer’s.
  • CAROL MASSARO

CAROL MASSAROJoseph Andrew Massaro Jr Alzheimers Fund

On September 27, 2013, Carolyn C. Massaro established the Joseph A. Massaro Alzheimer’s Research Fund as a way for her family to honor her husband Joe, who has had Alzheimer’s Disease for several years. The goal of the fund is to find answers to the myriad of questions that remain about the disease. With the fund, she plans to assist research efforts that are devoted to finding a cure or preventative measure to the disease. Her goal is to raise enough money to fund research efforts in Pittsburgh so she can give back to the Pittsburgh community.
  • MAGGIE OWNBEY AND SUSAN OWNBEY-MENAKER

MAGGIE OWNBEY AND SUSAN OWNBEY-MENAKERThe Miracle Sisters

We have been Alzheimer's advocates since our mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2006. A couple of years later my mother-in-law also showed signs and her diagnosis included Parkinson's. We were National Alzheimer's Ambassadors and have been to Capitol Hill in D.C. many times. We hold fundraisers, write op-eds, work on Walk Committees for ALZGLA, and Maggie works with Leeza Gibbons' Care Connection as a HUGS Ambassador. I am an Ambassador with The Youth Movement Against Alzheimer's. In July we went to Peru to climb Machu Picchu with 35 other advocates from 5 countries. We're just getting started.
  • KADY LUCHETTI

KADY LUCHETTIRN, CHES

I am with the WAM because of my Gram, and for every patient I meet and family I see whose world is in chaos in the face of this disease, and for women and the communities everywhere who need them and their brilliant minds to stay healthy.
  • DHARLENE MARIE FAHL

DHARLENE MARIE FAHLAuthor / Publisher

Senile used to be the term and we just accepted it as part of aging. Dementia seems less frightening than Alzheimer's but it's viewed as the beginning of the dreaded Alzheimer's. Why are the numbers sky-rocketing? That's what we need to find out and why women??
  • ANDREA VASSALLO MEYER

ANDREA VASSALLO MEYER

Just learning about this movement is inspiring! Alzheimer's has touched my family. Count me in.
  • DANA MCGRATH

DANA MCGRATH

I lost my Mom on September 11, 2015. She was a single parent, who worked hard all of her life and raised 3 children on her own. One of the many things my Mother instilled in me, was the love of music and dance. Once she became ill, I would come over after my Zumba class and play music and show off my new dance moves, while she "chair danced". It was one of the few things that we could still share together and I will always cherish those times and memories.
  • CATHIE BORRIE

CATHIE BORRIEAuthor, the long hello

I was CRAZY IN LOVE with the emergence of my mother's poet-mind while she was living with dementia. I encourage everyone to start recording conversations they have with those they care for who are living with dementia. The enduring spirit and human essence of my mother continued until her last breath . . .
  • LYNN SESTAK

LYNN SESTAKSoftware engineering program manager

I'm in for the fight. Alzheimer's and dementia run strong in my father's side of the family, and I want to be part of the solution.
  • MEG DONAHUE

MEG DONAHUECo-Founder MamaSezz.com

My father died from Alzheimer's and 2 yrs later,my mom at 80 was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and released to hospice care. Desperate, I researched "who has survived late term heart failure" and found studies that showed eating a Whole Food Plant Based Diet may reverse her condition. We fed her tiny meals for a year, she gradually got better and her heart function is near normal. She's 86 now, swims 4 times a week and healthy. I don't have many regrets, but one is I didn't know the impact of diet on brain health when my Dad was first diagnosed in his mid 60's. Brain health is multi-faceted but I believe we could have mitigated the progression of his disease by limiting processed foods and including more plant-based meals in his diet. Becoming a part of the solution: I started an organic whole food plant-based food company, MamaSezz.com we deliver fresh ready made meals direct to customers nationwide. Our goal is to make it easier for people to shift to a healthier diet and to educate communities about the impact of food choices on their health.
  • LISA MARIE CHIRICO

LISA MARIE CHIRICONursing Home Navigator Coach

Alzheimer's stole my Dad's Golden Years with my Mom. I miss his smile and his laughter - I miss him every day. The courage and strength Dad showed us during his 15-year battle with Alzheimer’s is my inspiration now. Let's continue our work to raise awareness and find a cure for this disease!
  • CHARLENE NEU

CHARLENE NEUGeriatric Care Manager

My Mom's life changed when she learned that she is one of the millions of smart, funny, wonderful women that is afflicted with this horrific disease. I miss my Mom, Joan Neu every day. She's here, but yet she's not. In honor of my Mom and to help other families who search for information, assistance, guidance and empathy, I changed careers ten years ago and am now a Gerontologist, an Advocate and a Geriatric Care Manager and a member of the Women's Alzheimer's Movement, working to eradicate Alzheimer's Disease in my lifetime.
  • KARRIE CONVERSE-JONES

KARRIE CONVERSE-JONESOwner: TurningLeaf CurationServices

We need to keep the research going - this is such a costly disease in both time and caregiver effort. All family members are effected emotionally. This is a full-time job on top of most people's full-time job. The systems (facilities, insurance, government assistance) have not caught up to the need.
  • LISA K

LISA KPraying for a cure

The last 4 years I have watched more women and men be diagnosed with Alzheimer's! My father has Levy-Body and I chose to move in with my parents so I could spend more time with them both. It's been challenging to say the least. The most challenging has been living with my mother. I love them both! I pray she never get Alzheimer's and I fear I will. So if that day should ever come around, I'll be ready but in the meantime I will do what I can to help find a cure. There has to be a cure one day soon I hope.
  • KAREN ELIZABETH MARX

KAREN ELIZABETH MARXEditor

Me and my family are commited to seeing a cure to this disease. This disease is currently efferting us--and we know with the research, people coming forward and sharing their stories----and GETTING THE MONEY TO FUND research is critical. There will be a day, and hopefully soon that someone doesn't die from this awful disease. In it to defeat it!
  • LISA ANNA BULL

LISA ANNA BULLEmpowertress

My Husbands Mom showed signs at 54 years, living until the beautiful age of 86. She often would hug me and thank me for protecting her. I could see how frightened she was, reassuring her she was safe and all of us were being there protecting her and loving her all the more. I know that nutrition is vital to my brains health. I am having test now for signs of neurological problems affecting my body mind and soul. I must be mindful to be gentle with my self and others. I have learned the craft of Intentional Creativity. Keeping it sacred in everything I do. I have faith and believe in beautiful tomorrows...we create them today. It is the gift... that's why it's called the present a gift from God. Blessings dear ones. People deserve to live in gentle, Loving environments where aliveness, delight and joy are norm. Anything less is an insult to the human spirit. Dr. Micheal Ryce
  • ERICA HORNTHAL

ERICA HORNTHALCEO of Chicago Dance Therapy

As a dance/movement therapist and clinical counselor I see first hand how this disease manipulates an individual's sense of self, security, and safety. I also have the honor of helping them reconnect to those parts that seem inaccessible through the use of movement, non-verbal communication, and dance. Connection is always possible through movement.
  • REBECCA KATZ

REBECCA KATZ

My father, Jay, died of dementia in his eighties, after struggling with the disease for a decade. Ever since, I felt like I was on a timetable, that my mind had an expiration date of age seventy or so. It wasn’t a pleasant way to feel, but justified, I thought, given my paternal genetics. I’ve spent years exploring the connections between brain health. The good news?  What we put on the end of our fork definitely affects the brain in a myriad of ways. For me, this notion is empowering and incredibly liberating. www.rebeccakatz.com
  • BETH CHILCOTT

BETH CHILCOTT

Jeff and I have been married 47 yrs with the last 7 compromised by Alzheimer's. Jeff played many years of football and rugby, so may be suffering from CTE. Regardless of its origins, his life, treatment and prognosis remain the same grim outcome.  When you marry at 22 and say those words "for better or worse," we never expect or ponder "the worst." Age and wisdom brings reality front and center, and while Alzheimer's has definitely become "for worse", it also has provided opportunities for personal growth and strengths we never knew we had at 22. Love changes and grows as life dictates; embrace every new horizon.

  • PAM MONTANA

PAM MONTANA

I was diagnosed with Younger Onset Alzheimer's in 2016. After 17 years in the high tech world, most recently at Intel Corporation as a Sales Director, I now find myself retired, but not by choice. But I am not letting Alzheimer's get me down! I have been speaking about my disease and sharing my story with anyone and everyone that will listen. I am an Early Stage Advisor for the National Alzheimer's Association, a member of AIM, and recently was appointed to the Board of Directors for the Northern California/Northern Nevada Alzheimer's Association. My husband and I walked in four Walks to End Alzheimer's in 2016 and raised over $50,000 to help us find a cure! My blog, www.myjourneywithalzheimers.com allows me to be vulnerable and honest as I share the trials and tribulations of living with Alzheimer's at the early age of 61.

  • LISA CINI

LISA CINICreator

I am a Alzheimer's / Dementia Interior Designer with a mission to Improve Quality of Life. While my firms project impact thousands, there are still many that cant afford or don't want to go into a locked care unit. That was the case for my family. so a couple of years ago, I moved my parents and grandmother who is now 95 with Alzheimer's in with us an documented all of the successes and failures in a book to help others on this journey. Hive The Simple Guide to Multigenerational Living. Because of my career, I have been blessed to use products to help my parents and grandmother Embrace Living and now offer them to others on www.bestlivingtech.com
  • JUDY LOKER

JUDY LOKER

Judy and I met in 2001, married in 2004, diagnosis came in in 2013, a lot more took place in-between and it has always been, For Judy, By My Judy and With My Judy.

We are home. This is the best environment supportive of therapies that are ongoing and aimed to spur synapses and new naturopaths. I am trying my best to slow "it" down. I wake up thinking what can I do, what can I read, whom can I talk to, to seek help, for her and for others. What about the most vulnerable that have less resources, I just don't know, so awareness is all I can think in spreading. I know this is what My Judy would do to help others, sharing key information that could in turn be supportive for others to make better informed decisions.

  • RUTH SUTCLIFFE

RUTH SUTCLIFFECreator, Foundrr of Essential Awakenings Smell and Memory Kits

My mother in law has Alzheimer’s, and mother had dementia. After my mother passed away in early 2016, I decided to use my expertise as a scent developer and create the Essential Awakenings Smelling Sessions at senior centers and Assisted Living Communities For Memory Care. My 60+ sessions evolved into manufacturing smell and memory kits for families, caregivers and communities to help enrich the lives of people suffering from Alzheimer’s . The smelling sessions and their smell prompts help elicit conversation, engage seniors in their own istorytelling and the recall of memories through the sense of smell. My business plan and product garnered a regional award by the SBA in Stamford, CT in the InnovateHER2017 competition.
  • ANN PHILLIPS SEIDE

ANN PHILLIPS SEIDEMD

I have watched my grandmother and now my mother fade as fronto-temporal dementia claimed their brains, and know that I, my sister, and my daughters are at risk. I am also an internal medicine physician and palliative care specialist who daily sees the impact of dementia on my patients and their families. I also see, through my spiritual practice, that who each of us is is more than simply our brain functions. I am proud to add my support to this community of healers!
  • LISA MARRONE

LISA MARRONEDirector of Business Development, Town of Chelmsford MA

My story begins similar to many others. However, my family members blamed me for 'making Mom crazy' as my life was highly stressful and assumed that it was spilling over into my mother's difficulty to cope with her life. It was a terrible time to endure and decided to take ownership of what was happening to my Mother. I reached out to everyone and anyone, including medical staff, coworkers, caregivers, and even strangers for their insight and support. I found everything I needed. Today my mother is doing well. She was officially diagnosed in 2015 and enjoys a full and rewarding life without fear and confusion. I am her only daughter, her namesake, and her strongest advocate. No one is alone in this fight. Family may not always be helpful and even cause more hindrance, but there is always a way through it. Don't give up. I created an Alzheimer's Awareness public park in my hometown. It lights up purple every night to represent the struggle of sundowning and to show someone cares. #endalz
  • KATHIE GOTTWALD

KATHIE GOTTWALD

Seeking information, guidance and support.
  • JOLEEN WOFFORD

JOLEEN WOFFORDAdministration Supervisor

My Mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's about 8 years ago. We kept her at home and cared for her for 4.5 years. My Father cared for her weekly with the assistance of my sister and I. On the week-ends my brothers and my sister would all rotate so that my Father could continue to preach at the local church. However, eventually it became apparent that he was going to have to retire permanently to care for her. During these week-end visits they became personal individual visits for me because she was still pretty functional and reasonable. However, if Dad was gone for long periods she would become unreasonable and the raging would happen. Needless to say eventually she fell and had a slight fracture in her hip and it was no longer safe for her to be at home under the care of my Father alone. She was 82 at the time. She is now 85 and has been in a home for 2.5 years. Her health has declined considerably. She still speaks sometimes. She doesn't know who we are although we are familiar to her, she says I love you and kisses good bye. She knows who my Father is, after 60+ years of marriage and 5 children, what a miracle. He visits every morning. One of the children visits every evening. It has been a journey of pain, love and heartbreak. I do have to say as long as I get an love you too, and a kiss goodbye, when I leave! I'm good.
  • KATHERINE ELLINGTON

KATHERINE ELLINGTONCEO/Founder

Moving minds across generations of women for brain health.
  • MARY ANN BURROWS

MARY ANN BURROWSArtist

Alzheimers suffers and their caregivers are heros I support this cause because I care about all humans and the importance of caring for others. This is such an important cause. This is true Mind-fullness.
  • KELLY L GROH

KELLY L GROHEVP & CFO, Genworth

I've had several friends and family members impacted by this disease, and it is heartbreaking! Let's all support research and prevention activities to fight it - I'm In!
  • GINGER MARTIN

GINGER MARTIN

My mother died of Alzheimer's at age 85. My maternal grandmother also had some sort of dementia and died in her late 70's.
  • BETHANY STEVENS

BETHANY STEVENSAttorney

Alzheimer’s is depriving my stepfather of memories and his self, my mother of her life partner and personal freedom, my children of their grandparents. My siblings and I have become advocates and care managers for our parents, while trying to raise our own young families. I am a part of WAM full of hope that my husband and I and my children can know a different future.
  • DEANNA MILLER

DEANNA MILLERHospice RN

I am an advocate for Alzheimer's, as it has woven itself into my personal and professional life. I became an RN after my mother succumbed to Alzheimer's at the age of 67. I knew at that time that I wanted to help people both who have Alzheimer's and their caregivers. I see so many people affected by this disease. Families are reshaped and finally torn. Women care for their spouses who not only don't know them any longer, but display hate toward them. My prayer is that I can help... somehow.
  • JOY EBALLAR

JOY EBALLAR

For my mom who died from this 7/14/2009. And for the future for all of us..
  • REBECCA AXLINE, LCSW

REBECCA AXLINE, LCSWSupervisory Clinical Social Worker

I meet women every day dealing with cognitive change - as a person with disease, as a caregiver, as a family member, and like me, as a clinician helping others navigate their way to creating quality moments as long as life exists. I also share their pain, having had a mother with memory loss through vascular dementia. Let's love our way forward!
  • SARAH SMITH

SARAH SMITHDaughter of Early onset Mom and upcoming author

Thank you for your efforts Maria. I’m so grateful to be a part of your big wall in support and honor of my Mom that has early onset Alzheimer’s. Thank you for your hard work, your strong faith, and your heart’s desire to fight for women with this disease. You are incredible! As I chronicle our journey on Instagram (@beautyinalzheimers), I hope I can inspire many people and women the way you have inspired me. How we love, serve and show up for our loved ones matter. Life matters, and it’s up to us to choose love and empower people to renew their minds, train their bodies, and trust in God. God bless you, Maria Shriver!
  • TARA MCDONALD

TARA MCDONALDAustralian Alzheimer’s advocate

Dementia is the leading cause of death for women in Australia. I want to change that. I came across this fabulous group and felt excited to find other women focused on ridding the world of Alzheimer’s.
  • RANA MCNAMARA

RANA MCNAMARA

I want to do what is possible to stop this dreadful disease that impacts so many - particularly women.
  • ANNETTE JANUZZI WICK

ANNETTE JANUZZI WICKWriter

For seven years, my mother and I have danced with her dementia. Sometimes, its been a slow waltz, other times, a square dance. We live in the space of welcoming the moments that come from that light of recognition of a face, a joke, or a smile. We also live in the space of accepting those moments that are bleak, knowing that light is right around the corner.
  • LOVINGLY PARK

LOVINGLY PARKDirector

I have dedicated my career to ending Alzheimer's disease. By joining the movement, I can educate my peers and other members of the public on the devastation of AD, how it impacts the family, and the unique challenges it can pose for women as patients and as caregivers.
  • CINDY FEUERMAN

CINDY FEUERMANMedia and Technology Specialist/Group Fitness Instructor

My Father had Alzheimer's. My Mother cared and "covered" for him up until she lost her fight to Cancer. He survived five more years before this disease took him from us too. As a group fitness instructor I love the idea of Move for Minds! I do everything I can to ward off this disease and look for ways to encourage others to move and make every effort keep their minds fit!
  • CATHY BRAXTON AND TAMI NEUMANN

CATHY BRAXTON AND TAMI NEUMANNChief Education Officer & Chief Operations Officer for Dementia RAW

We have seen the struggles on the faces of families we have worked with in the past and saw that there was a need to simplify communication with the person living with dementia. We equip caregivers with a new way to communicate with persons living with dementia: Introspective Improv. Unscripted, unconventional & unapologetic we help you to think on your feet. We affirm you and send you back home energized.
  • APRIL JOJOLA

APRIL JOJOLASenior Project Manager

My father has been battling this crippling disease for 9 years. It is genetic. My grandfather and grandmother died of this disease. I want to find a cure so my daughter and my grandchildren do not have to experience what I have gone through with my dad, with me. I do have the gene, but I do not want to have this disease when I am older. I want to fight it now. Its time for a change.
  • KAT VERDI

KAT VERDIMature Adult Advocate Community Liai

I’m determined to educate people about memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s.
  • VICTORIA COOPER

VICTORIA COOPER

This is for my mother, Susan Turner, who was diagnosed with early onset alzhiemers at 60
  • ADRIANA MACHADO

ADRIANA MACHADOFounder of Briyah Institute

Knowing what to do to keep a healthy brain and prevent AD as well as to help others cope up with the challenges of this 21st century disease is critical. Let's join forces and spread the word! Congratulations for this great initiative!
  • ERIN MAHONEY

ERIN MAHONEY

I just lost my mother to early-onset Alzheimer’s less than two weeks ago. She was only 65. She was diagnosed right before her 59th birthday. The progression was swift and agressive in the last couple of years as she lost all ability to care for herself, eventually including the ability to speak and ambulate. My father and I managed to keep her at home with the help of some incrediable aides up until the last two and a half weeks of her life. My father and I were at her bedside when she passed. I suffered a lot of depression and hopelessness as I witnessed my mother lose more and more of her cognition and lose the resemblance to the mother I grew up with. Yet, at the same time, the love for my mother grew as we developed a connection that was beyond words. I hope the love I gave her, especially in the later years, was able to make her feel some semblance of comfort amidst the confusion and devestation of Alzheimer’s. Around a year and a half ago, I decided to get involved with my local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. I testified at my state Capitol for respite care funding, I spoke to local media about the importance of cost-effective homecare programs, I attended the National Alzheimer’s Advocacy Forum in Washington DC, I became part of my local chapter’s public policy committee, and more recently I became a Congressional Ambassador. Getting involved has helped with the pain of losing my mother to this horrible disease. And by becoming part of the bigger cause it’s opened my eyes to just how critical raising awareness is, as well as advocating for increased research funding and urging our Congress men and women to support critical pieces of legislation that are intended to conquer the Alzheimer’s crisis in the US.
  • AMANDA SMITH

AMANDA SMITHDirector of Clinical Research, USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Institute

I strive every day to provide excellent care to persons living with dementia, to support and educate their caregivers, and to continue to search for a cure...until Alzheimer's is a memory.
  • MICHELLE MORMUL

MICHELLE MORMULHistorian

Both my parents died from dementia. I’m lucky that I still remember my own name.
  • DIANE L TODD

DIANE L TODDMs.

I would love to get involved. Although I have retired now and on a fixed income I cannot donate like I would like to. But, I give what I can in the memory of my Mother who had this disease. I am in good health both mentally and physically!! And I would like to give of my time. I would like suggestions and directions as to how. Thank you in advance!!
  • Shonda Bell

Shonda BellCaregiver

My name is Shonda Bell. I'm. A 49 year old wife, mother, daughter and special education teacher. I am the caregiver for both my parents who are living with dementia at different stages. I am doing all I possibly can to learn about the disease, advocate for those affected by it and raise funds for research. I want to help make a change & educate the world.
  • JANELLE CAPRA

JANELLE CAPRAFounder, Capra PR

My mother was officially diagnosed with dementia at the age of 65. Since that time we have watched a once very vibrant and "alive" woman slowly disappear. The good days have been heart-breaking and the bad days, devastating. But, thanks to organizations like WAM, I have come to realize that we are not alone. Mom is now 73 years old and in the final stages of Alzheimer's. She lives in a full-time Memory Care facility. This disease has broken my family in many ways: financially, emotionally, spiritually and physically but we are NOT giving up! We keep the hope that someday there WILL be survivors of this devastating disease, that we WILL have more support for caregivers and that there WILL be new stories to tell. Mom's mind may forget us all, but her heart remembers and so does mine.
  • KAREN KLINK

KAREN KLINKms

Women need to care for women!
  • EMILIE LEE

EMILIE LEECreator of Talk to End Alz

In 2012, when I was 24 years old, my mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's at the age of 60. I've made it my mission to do what I can to help end this disease. I've raised over $8k in funding for research, I'm the co-chair of the East Bay Walk to End Alzheimer's and I'm the creator of the Youtube channel (and corresponding Instagram account) Talk to End Alz. This channel was created to be the safe space that I wish existed when I was 24. It celebrates Alzheimer's advocates and influencers and brings everyone on our journey with my mother's Alzheimer's. By talking about Alzheimer's, we will remove the stigma, raising awareness and then funds for research to hopefully one day find a cure. Let's Talk to End Alz.
  • CONNIE BOHAGER

CONNIE BOHAGERNurse, PAC Certified Independent Dementia Trainer, Owner of Caregiver Coaching, LLC

I was my mother's care partner for over 7 years and along the way I learned the hard lessons of caring for someone with dementia. My passion is to support caregivers who feel lost and alone and educate them on how to care for themselves along the way. I also want to inform people about how they can take precautions in their day to day lives that will help them avoid this dreadful demise. I strongly believe in a prevention model rather than a treatment model where Alzheimer's/Dementia is concerned.
  • LISA B CAPP

LISA B CAPPDementia Caregiving Survivor

An 18-year journey with my mom, Vera. Now forever in my heart.
  • JULIE MARTIN

JULIE MARTINMedical Editor

My mother, like hers at 80, is in the midst of memory loss and mid-stage dementia. What a loss it is for her and her family & friends. Am I next? How do I make sure I am not? And in the process of figuring that out, can I help others asking the same questions? I'm glad to know about this Movement and to join it!
  • DENA

DENAFor my family

My family, including both my grandmothers, my aunts and my mom, have suffered from this disease. I'm ready to fight this!
  • MEIRAV

MEIRAV

Hope
  • SHARIE VAN GILDER

SHARIE VAN GILDERKind-hearted, compassionate, loving gal

I am so honored to have participated in Move for Minds, Los Angeles and met my goal of raising over $1500 in memory of my Mom and Grandmother who both passed away from this heartbreaking disease. I look forward to supporting this amazing movement to find a cure!
  • MARIE BURNS

MARIE BURNSFinancial Advisor

My passion for helping others focus on their mind, money, and motion needs has been fueled by watching helplessly as family, friends and clients struggle with various forms of dementia. Like the saying goes, "if it is to be, it's up to me." Let's do this ladies, it is likely the most important difference we can make in this world!
  • CATE LONG

CATE LONGAccountant and Software Expert

We work so hard to have strong bodies and live long lives. This disease brutally cuts in and makes those last years no fun. Let's focus on brain health and kick Alzheimer's to the curb.
  • CINDI RATZLAFF

CINDI RATZLAFFTeacher

My my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2015. My grandmother passed away from a Alzheimer’s. Let’s fight this disease!
  • SINTHIA SZATO

SINTHIA SZATOAlzheimers Coloring Therapy Artist

Designer of coloring and painting sessions for dementia and Alzheimer's victims to improve the quality and contentment of their lives. Member of Maria Shrivers Color Your Mind coloring program.
  • BEVERLY NANCE

BEVERLY NANCECEO/Founder Puzzlebilities

My company makes custom jigsaw puzzles for the special communities of Alzheimer's and Autism. As the mother of a daughter with autism and the daughter of a mother with early-stage dementia, I am a witness to the importance of advocacy and research. I've joined the movement.
  • LETICIA LONG

LETICIA LONGFounder

Thank you for this important campaign. I was a caregiver for my mom who suffered from Alzheimer's Disease. She was a courageous woman who fought for women's rights until the devastating disease captured her mind. My company was started to give women (and men) a place to practice self care through exercise and community. 2019 marks the 10th year anniversary of the end of the Decade of the Brain (1990-1999), let's commit to a cure by 2029.
  • CASSIE BARLOW

CASSIE BARLOWChief Operating Officer

For my Aunt Josephine and my mother-in-law and the next generation of women who hopefully don't have to deal with this disease.
  • KATHLEEN LUPPI & MONICA ROLLINO

KATHLEEN LUPPI & MONICA ROLLINOSisters and Founders of The Six and Five lifestyle blog

We pray for those who suffer from the anxiety and confusion of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia and pray they are granted understanding helpers and the willingness to accept help.
  • TRACY SZARZI-FORS

TRACY SZARZI-FORSVice President of Marketing and Business Development

Supporting those women who have made an everlasting impression on peoples' lives and faced their future with Alzheimer's heroically. We fight for hope!
  • VICKY JAMES

VICKY JAMESRetired/Disabled

My mom had Alzheimer's and I'm VERY concerned that I may be next
  • CHERIE DENTISTE

CHERIE DENTISTERetired Financial Executive

The job of caregiver is stressful and challenging as I learned with my father's Frontal Temporal Dementia. I care deeply about caregiver education and resources. Now, I help care for my mom who has Alzheimer's and want to learn from others and support other caregivers.
  • SHELLEY MOORE

SHELLEY MOOREKeck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute

Working at the Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute (ATRI) and specializing in the enrollment of our early detection and treatment trials and the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) study, I am moving minds every day to defeat this disease. I am grateful that I get to do this work for my alma mater, the University of Southern California in my hometown of San Diego. I am especially proud of my role in working with so many other amazing women on your wall including Dr. Reisa Sperling on the A4 Prevention trial and Maria Carrillo, PhD on the LEARN study. This work towards finding an effective treatment is my calling. I am now working to build a trial ready cohort of participants to help accelerate clinical trial enrollments through the APT Webstudy. I do this work in honor of my loved ones, previous generations I have lost and whom are currently receiving care, as well as future generations for whom I hope will never suffer from Alzheimer's.
  • KAREN VOMMARO

KAREN VOMMARODaughter

I am on this site as I heard Maria Shriver on a podcast with Dave Asprey speaking of this movement. I witnessed firsthand how this disease took my mother in such a short period of time. She was a fiercely independent woman and struggled to comprehend why she had to leave her home and move to a "facility". There were good days and bad days. This picture I am submitting was a GOOD day and one that I will use to remember my mother. My mom passed away Jan 2018. She was in 3 different facilities over a 2 year period. My goal is to help and educate those that are experiencing the same struggle that I did. I want to make a differenece and I would like to be part of a movement like this one.
  • AMANDA CATHEY

AMANDA CATHEYWEDDING PLANNER

I am proud to support such a wonderful cause that is aiding in educating America on this dreadful disease. My grandmother has suffered from this disease for the last ten years. It is terribly sad to watch someone you love so dearly suffer from this disease.
  • DOMINIQUE PIROLO

DOMINIQUE PIROLOHuman Capital Specialist Career Coach

Keep spreading the news on dementia, Information is power.
  • JULIE PECK

JULIE PECKMy journey

My name is Julie and Alzheimer’s has affected me and my family now in a big way. My mother started showing signs around 5 years ago. But nothing most people would really think anything about. I had worked with people with this disease before so I knew the signs, but no one wanted to hear what I had to say. They just acted as if I were nuts to even begin to suggest that. As it progressed I began to beg her to please go to the doctor and she refused. My father still didn’t want to believe it either. She had been put to sleep for Thyroid surgery and one of the doctors had said with her age that sometimes when they're put to sleep it can cause some memory loss and things like the trouble she was having and with time it would get better. Don’t get me wrong, I hoped that he was right, but I also knew this had started way before all of that. But it sadly gave my father, mother and the family something to grab hold of and run with instead of listening to me and taking to get help sooner. But around a year later it had started to progress to the point where it was getting dangerous. Her mother passed away and I know that had some affect on her. She started progressing at a very rapid pace after that. To the point where my father and family couldn’t deny this anymore. And so my father agreed that it was time to take her to a doctor. We had to trick her into going. And of course we had to take her license. I remember her just in tears because she was losing everything. And this last year it has progressed so very quickly that she’s no longer even able to remember my children’s names. She can no longer write her name, she can’t care for herself, & she’s even gotten to the point where she needs adult diapers from no longer being able to get to the bathroom in time. She’s still there in a way! She can still talk about things and she has some days better than others. But she is progressing so so fast and it breaks my heart. I care for her and help my father with things he needs help with also. I mean they are in their 70’s. So this is my story and why I’m supporting this movement and because we need more resources and research into this so we can somehow fight this disease!!
  • GIGI TILOCCA

GIGI TILOCCACaretaker

My mother was always my role model.... she was strong, independent, compassionate, empathetic! Now Alzheimer's has taken that from her!
  • IRENE OLSON

IRENE OLSONFormer caregiver for my father

I write about that which I am most passionate: respect for all mankind, spreading kindness, and making a difference in the lives of others, one person at a time. My life experience and career path reflect those passions: assisted living and memory care employee, State long-term care ombudsman, and Alzheimer’s caregiver support group facilitator. I was my father’s caregiver during his struggle with Alzheimer’s disease and would do it all over again in a heartbeat. I sincerely hope to live long enough to celebrate the first Alzheimer's survivor.
  • MELISSA BARTON

MELISSA BARTONMD

My mom, aunt, and grandmother all passed away from Alzheimers. Otherwise, all would have lived even longer without any significant medical problem. My dad was just diagnosed with the early stages. I have more compassion & patience for my patients than my own family...probably because it is more painful, more real, when it is your own family than a stranger in the emergency department. This is an epidemic that our society cannot afford. It just hasn't recognized it yet....She'd kill me for sending this picture but it was handy!
  • CHERYL JACKSON

CHERYL JACKSONCEO

I'm joining this movement because my family and friends depend on me for inspiration and information. It is my goal to educate and help eradicate Alzheimer's. I am proud to be part of WAM. Let's go.
  • ERIN MANLEY

ERIN MANLEYMiami Valley Alzheimer's Assoc Military Task Force board member

Supporting those women and military who have made an everlasting impression on peoples' lives and faced their future with Alzheimer's heroically. We fight for hope! Combat ALZ!
  • BARBARA-ANN KAIDY

BARBARA-ANN KAIDYPhD Candidate, Ed. Psych

My mother went through many years of dementia, and it was not diagnosed early enough. She always read voraciously, but, before the end, she couldn't complete a sentence. There were no plans for how to keep the brain healthy in my family because no one knew what that meant and that it was possible until I became a psychologist. I hope that the women of my and future generations will take the lead in spreading the news that we have not all "fallen and can't get up..." as we age, and that the more we use our mental faculties, the more they will remain and grow. If one finds he or she is forgetting everyday things, he or she should make an appointment for a check-up. Knowledge is power and early intervention can be the key to ameliorating and delaying some of the effects of dementia, especially Alzheimer's.
  • KAREN FREEMAN-WILSON

KAREN FREEMAN-WILSONMayor

My mother, Delores Freeman, was the original “shot caller” in my life. With one look, she could direct a household, family and job site like a seasoned military officer. In 1978, she was diagnosed with a blood disorder that impacted her platelet count negatively. In 1988, exactly a year after my father’s death, she had a bad seizure and lapsed into coma for 30 days. In 2001 after she suffered a stroke, friends and relatives began noticing that she was having cognitive challenges. It was most notable during a card game she loved. Between 2002-2009, she suffered 5 more strokes and with each stroke her cognition and mobility became more challenged. As her only child, I became primarily responsible for assisting her in navigating health care and independence. Ultimately, I have been honored to be her caregiver. None of this would have been possible without our family, my husband, Carmen; daughter Jordan (who assumed responsibility for helping “Granny” at 9); and her siblings, Marjorie, Helen and Gerald. In 2009, she had her last stroke on Mother’s Day while learning to walk again in a nursing home. Our family conferred and agreed that if they could “watch her have a stroke,” we could do the same and she would be more comfortable. Medical professionals went to great lengths to discourage this decision. It was the hardest decision I have ever made. But it is the most rewarding of my personal life. Today, she lives in our home—bedridden and without the ability to verbalize, but still one of the strongest women and most effective communicators I know. I am so grateful to my family, especially my daughter who sacrificed from the age of 9 to look after “Granny.” God bless you Maria for raising awareness about this devastating disease. God’s strength to all caregivers past, present and future. Everyday I pray that I am blessed with 1/10 of the fortitude my mother has exemplified to me and others.
  • KELSEY FLETCHER

KELSEY FLETCHERCaregiver

I took care of my grandmother with Alzheimer’s for a little over 4 years. She was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s at the age of 62 in 2009, with no history of the disease in our family. It was definitely a shock. As the disease progressed, it just became more and more difficult to manage the situation. She has been in a facility since earlier this year. It’s been really hard on our family. Especially with my grandma not having great insurance, it was a learning process. It’s definitely something that can break you as a person dealing with it. I pray for everyone affected by this disease and their families. Thank y’all for spreading the word, and educating people on Alzheimer’s. ❤️❤️
  • LEAH GRAHAM

LEAH GRAHAMManager of Goverment Affairs for the Jackson Laboratory

I live in one of the oldest states in the nation, and spent my time in graduate school studying the genetic and environmental risks for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. These experiences have shaped my devotion toward prevention.
  • MARAL N. ADALIAN

MARAL N. ADALIANCPA

By joining the movement I want to do what is possible to stop this dreadful disease that impacts so many-including my family. Let’s join forces and spread the world! I am proud to be part of WAM!
  • JEAN LOWERY

JEAN LOWERYSenior Branch Office Administrator

I was privileged to co-chair the Fredericksburg Walk to End Alzheimer’s this year and will continue to support these very important organizations
  • MARCIA GOODWYN

MARCIA GOODWYNTeacher

Alzheimer's disease is a thief that must be destroyed!
  • CYNTHIA BOYER

CYNTHIA BOYERClinical Neuropsychologist

In memory of my mom & aunts
  • DENISE BLACK

DENISE BLACKMgr of Awesomeness!

Let’s keep staying optimistic as I know in our lifetime, a cure will be found!!🤞
  • JANE ALBERDA

JANE ALBERDABusiness Manager

My dear sister in law Linda is who I fight for as my brother Ron cares for her daily at home!
  • EMILY DELSTER

EMILY DELSTERMrs.

My mom was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s at 55 years old in 2017. I stepped down from my position at work, we sold our house and got a bigger one so she could move in with us. My husband and I have 3 young kids, and while this journey has been tremendously difficult, I’m grateful for the time we have together. I bathe, dress and feed my mom alongside my little ones. I never get used to it. I am hopeful for more successful medical trials and ongoing research!
  • NIDHI MAHENDRA

NIDHI MAHENDRAAssociate Professor; 2017-18 Tideswell Emerging Leaders in Aging Scholar

I'm ready to do more, with more people, to tackle Alzheimer's disease head-on through research, teaching, service, community outreach, education, and fierce advocacy.
  • KIM “LOVIE” HOWELL

KIM “LOVIE” HOWELLMrs.

Our beautiful mom was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s at the young age of 68. When I first noticed that something just wasn’t right with her, we immediately had the basic tests run and found she had thyroid cancer. After that surgery, her symptoms increased dramatically. My fears were solidified after having blood tests and MRI’s that confirmed...Alzheimer’s. Like the thief it truly is, the disease has intensified over the past 5 1/2 years. Blank looks have replaced the sparkle in her eyes. Fear controls her spirit. Confusion replaces confidence. The independent, positive woman is now reliant on those around her for the most basic of needs. The thief has robbed us of her. The woman who once was our rock. The adored matriarch of our family. Love is powerful yet this disease has restructured our hearts...making us yearn for who our mom used to be. Find a cure. We have to. No one should have to watch the cruelty of this disease. #nanny #mom #wife #sister #friend
  • ELAINE W. ASKINS

ELAINE W. ASKINSSocial Worker

My mom passed @ 97 1/2 years old, with far reaching long term memory, oftentimes placing herself in those “moments.” It became almost a game responding to “Did you see them on your way here,” when “them” had been deceased for some 30 years. Or, when on a Friday, reminding me to go by my cousin’s house because they would be looking for us to come by for fried fish. They, too had been deceased years before. The stories are endless, but I did capture some history that she had not before revealed. Then, there was the “wait for it” moments of her being able to talk about today’s visitors, 3 days to a week later. We were blessed as a family to not experience physically harmful & other devastating results of this brain disfunction! I am actively taking measures in attempt to prevent Alzheimer’s & get help for a healthy brain life. So many unknowns!
  • MARY LOUISE HAWKINS

MARY LOUISE HAWKINSMa

I volunteer at a nursing home and try to have interactions with Alzheimers patients. It is very difficult for the patient and the volunteer.
  • SANDRA O’LEARY

SANDRA O’LEARYMs.

I want to be a part of the movement to eradicate the Alzheimer’s disease that took the last 12 years of my mother’s life.
  • CANDY MARDER

CANDY MARDERmrs

This is such an important movement, not just for women, but for everyone. The whole family is affected when a loved one is dealing with this life changing disease. The awareness that this movement brings is so important and gives all of us a sense of hope for change.
  • PATTI GILLIGAN

PATTI GILLIGANMrs

My mother has Alzheimer’s for 8.5 years. My three sisters and I want to ensure we do everything we can not to get it and to help find a cure.
  • ROBIN INGALLS

ROBIN INGALLSDaughter

Hi, My Mom battled Alzheimer's for approximately 13 years before losing her battle on July 25, 2018. I miss her everyday. It is such a horrible disease. Watching a woman so full of life and love become so dependent on others to care for her. It was devastating to watch her deteriorate. I thank God she did not forget her family members and for that I will always be grateful. We need to work together to find a cure. 💜
  • LINDA AND JUSTIN HAMMAN

LINDA AND JUSTIN HAMMANTeam

My mom was diagnosed w/ early onset Alzheimer’s Disease when she was 58 and I was 21. For the past 5 years I’ve had the privilege of being Mom’s “primary caregiver”. In Mom’s brain, the synaptic connections between neurons can no longer communicate. Because of this, Mom needs me. She relies on me to help her with “activities of daily living” which were once so simple and easy for her. Despite these challenges, our relationship continues to strengthen and we celebrate the health of Mom’s spirit and the love that radiates from her. From our experiences, my brother and I have been empowered, and we have founded a virtual reality company named Zenjoi. Inspired by Mom, we have created various experiences ranging from playing fetch w/ a virtual puppy to cognitive and physical exercise. While many will be quick to correct me and tell me it can’t be done, I hope to cure Mom of this dreadful disease. But until then, we, like millions of others will continue to “dance with Alzheimer’s disease” and we will not let it take away our peace and joy!
  • TRYN ROSE SELEY

TRYN ROSE SELEYAlzheimer’s Author and Creative Provider

Music, storytelling and art-creating lift the spirits of everyone affected by Alzheimer’s, and revive each person too!
  • CAROLYN AIRD

CAROLYN AIRDIntegrative Nutrition Health Coach

I am my Mother's Primary Caregiver at 83 now living with Alzheimer's disease.
  • SALLIE WINTER DREYER

SALLIE WINTER DREYER

My Mom...faith, grace and love never left while living with Alzheimer’s for at least 16 years. Miss her every day.
  • JOY FLEISCHMANN

JOY FLEISCHMANNRetired Activist

My mother suffered from dementia which is under the Alzheimer’s umbrella ...a devastating brain disease which needs so much more support and funding. I am a HUGE FAN of Maria Shriver and her family. I want to be a part of finding a solution and a cure for these attacks on the brain. I believe Maria will be focused in this area and trust her leadership to get active and raise funds for research.
  • JUDITH CAMPBELL

JUDITH CAMPBELLMs

My mother had Alzheimer’s for 16 years. Such a hard illness for family members too. I want to learn. I want to be a part of bringing about change.
  • ANN GENTRY

ANN GENTRYWomen's Health Entrepreneur

In witnessing my mother's decline and eventual death from Alzheimer's disease, I woke up. Research for a cure is paramount, but its what we can do every day in our life - with diet and nutrition, movement and exercise, self-care, mindset and other lifestyle choices that will make a difference in how we as women age.
  • ELISE SCHWARTZ

ELISE SCHWARTZMrs.

I see the ravages of Alzheimer's as a medical supplier. I am passionate about understanding how the brain ages and what can be done so our loved ones no longer have to live with this disease.
  • JOANNA STARCZYNOWSKI

JOANNA STARCZYNOWSKIBusiness Development and Leadership Consultant

Recently, my father passed away from Dementia/Alzheimer's and my mother has also been diagnosed with the same. It is a devastating and painful way of losing our loved ones. I watched my father deteriorate and currently, my mother's condition is advancing quickly. As an only child, I am faced with the daily challenges to understand this debilitating condition. Sometimes, it is overwhelming but God gives me the strength to face the fact: They were and still are my parents, I love them no matter what.
  • KRYSTAL FINFROCK

KRYSTAL FINFROCKCaregiver

I have personally been affected by this horrible disease that took my grandma 3+ years ago. After we lost her I went on to be an in home health care provider, worked in an assisted living facility and from there I took care of my aunt, my gma’s sister, full time as she had a heart attack, and we lost her last May. My passion is Alzheimer’s and the effects on the patient as well as caregivers. I am always reading and talking about it. It has really dawned on me from working in the field that there definitely is not enough training on how to care for Alzheimer’s residents or patients. I’m really trying to wrap my brain about how I can help change this. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Let’s keep fighting and keep the talks going. #BEATALZHEIMER’S
  • KAREN WRIGHT

KAREN WRIGHTAlzheimer Advocate

The effects of this disease has a ripple affect across the generations. Whether you are living with Alzheimer's, are a caregiver, or are caught somewhere in between it all, It's important to know that others stand with you, day in and day out. I've been a caregiver and also supporter for my family. Sharing with others has been rewarding and comforting. Reaching out to others can help ease the pain.
  • DONNA MCGOVERN

DONNA MCGOVERNFounder, Women ARE Waking Up

This is my beautiful aunt Carmen who has been affected wIth Alzheimer’s for several years now. My mom and I are the main caretakers as well as so much help from home health aids. This truly altered our lives. Thank you Maria Shriver for putting a big spotlight on this life altering disease. I hope to be around when a cure is found.
  • DEBRA BALAMOS

DEBRA BALAMOSLeadership Coach

Alzheimer's impacts all families. So grateful to Maria Shriver for leading the charge on this extremely important initiative.
  • IRIS AGUILAR

IRIS AGUILARMSPA

We need to focus and start conversations about AD in many languages with kids, adults and the elderly. Women, Latina/os and African Americans have higher rates but are under represented in research, we need change.
  • JENNIFER WORTHAM

JENNIFER WORTHAMChief Administrative Officer

Wishing all those who are working on this important issue many blessings.
  • LYNN CULLITY

LYNN CULLITYRealtor

Too many families, including mine, are losing their loved ones to this devastating disease.
  • ROSSANNA BRESSLER

ROSSANNA BRESSLERMrs

Find a cure. We have to and as quickly as possible. I am scared, I AM TERRIFIED! This involves all of us. This is OUR problem ALL OF US!! No one should have to watch the cruelty of this disease
  • JOANNA STARCZYNOWSKI

JOANNA STARCZYNOWSKIBusiness Development and Leadership Consultant

Recently, my father passed away from Dementia/Alzheimer's and my mother has also been diagnosed with the same. It is a devastating and painful way of losing our loved ones. I watched my father deteriorate, and currently, my mother's condition is advancing quickly. As an only child, I am faced with the daily challenge to understand this debilitating condition. Sometimes, it is overwhelming but God gives me the strength to face the fact: They were and still are my parents. I love them no matter what.
  • JANET MCGLADE

JANET MCGLADE

I am a daughter of parents that both had Alzheimer's.
  • ANNA SIMONE SCOTT

ANNA SIMONE SCOTTwriter - director

Thank you to Maria Shriver and all the women who are forging ahead to help find a cure for Alzheimer's. Although my mother was stricken in her 80's with a different form of dementia, her slow demise along with the very sad deterioration of her once bright and agile mind, caused me to spend years exploring and researching. During that time a neighbor was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's. This had a most profound effect on me and more so on her family members. As a long time yoga practitioner and teacher for several years, I've always believed in the mind, body, spirit connection. However, as experts research this terrible disease further, we see that although diet, exercise of brain and body are important, there is indeed more that adds to the cause of this disease. I felt the need for my writing to find a public forum to embrace and educate with humor and love. The has resulted in my latest play THIS LIFE. A work that has now taken ten years; four years after my brother and I were informed of my mother's diagnosis and her inevitable demise over seven years began. I look forward to becoming a part of this most necessary and important movement. Thank you and warm wishes, Anna Simone Scott
  • JENNIFER FINK

JENNIFER FINKFading Memories Podcast Host

There are 3 generations of women behind me who have suffered from this disease, and I will not be the 4th.
  • CORDELIA GIBSON

CORDELIA GIBSON

My mother has Alzheimer, her oldest sister and father died from complications of Alzheimer's. I want to learn more about this disease.
  • PATRICIA CARON

PATRICIA CARONExecutive Director

I have been a staunch advocate for individuals and their families living with Alzheimer’s for over 20 years. It is my hope that we WILL see a world without Alzheimer’s.
  • LYNN WERNER

LYNN WERNERDaughter

I want to support the effort to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease.
  • JORDAN BAILEY

JORDAN BAILEYMiss

I’m so excited there is a women’s advocacy program, and I can’t wait to see what it’s all about and be apart of something like this!
  • PAMELA SPYRS

PAMELA SPYRSFOUNDER - INSPYRS

As Founder of INSPYRS I hope to bring inspYration to others who live with alzheimer's whether as a caregiver or otherwise, to LIVE IN THE MOMENT. I learned this throughout my beautiful mother's struggle with this disease. I now have those moments to hold on to as my twin sister and I keep her memory alive. Grateful for this organization and hopeful to continue to inspYre more to fight to end alzheimer's and LIVE IN THE MOMENT.
  • MARIE K. GERKEN

MARIE K. GERKENWriter - The Wholly Middle

When I was 16, my grandfather was challenged with dementia/Alzheimer's and lived with us for a short time. At 23 and newly married, I was a CNA coordinator and therapy aide working at a skilled nursing facility in Southern California. Little did I know at the time, this experience would prepare me for the future. My father died of cancer when I was 26, and as the only girl in my family and with a new discovery that I am naturally a caregiver, I took care of him in his last living months and then I took care of my mom in new ways. At the age of 45, I found myself as a member of the sandwich generation raising four kids with my husband and caring for my mom who has developed Alzheimer's. Although there have been many blessings, the effects of this disease on my mom, myself, and my family often cannot be put into words. It can be hard to cope with, talk about and share difficult situations. Living with someone who has Alzheimer's is unlike my other caregiving roles. For a long time, I resisted writing about my experience. But with the encouragement from individuals I have met in the Alzheimer's community, I now share my story openly and freely to bring more awareness to this indescribable disease and all it entails. I hope to help others going through similar situations and to lighten feelings of hopelessness and loneliness. Even when family and friends surround an individual, one can feel very alone as he or she navigates through this disease with their loved one. I hope that readers find a home through my writings on my blog, The Wholly Middle. Together, we can make beautiful things happen for the greater good of Alzheimer's.
  • BETH JONES

BETH JONESDaughter & Founder of Midlife Moms Adventure Club

My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's 10 years ago at 65 years old. She now lives a happy life in a memory care center, and I know that a big part of her stability is the movement that we integrate into her life. As a movement professional myself, I am more committed to making sure a healthy lifestyle, including all-day movement, is a part of my routine, and educating more women about how to protect their brain health. It's one of the reasons that I founded the group Midlife Moms Adventure Club and hope to continue to educate and inspire women to live their fullest active lives!
  • CAROLE KLINGLER

CAROLE KLINGLERChief Executive Officer a Dementia Friendly LIFE

You are not alone!
  • ROBYN TALBOTT

ROBYN TALBOTTDAUGHTER

In 2006, we lost my Daddy-o to Pick's Disease. It was a soul-crushing loss for me after losing my husband, my little sister and my Mom, all in the span of 4 years. Although not Alzheimer's, Pick's is a degenerative disease causing dementia behavior and cognitive loss. My older sister took Daddy to her home and did all the things necessary to take care of him--including eventually putting him in a home due to extreme changes in behavior and violence. I was a chicken and never went to see him during those years because I had no desire to see a man who didn't know me and was not my Daddy-o. I want to join you so I educate myself and become non chicken in case it happens to anyone else in my family.
  • DARLYN DAVIS

DARLYN DAVISMiss Hummingbird Festival 2019

When I was only 10, my great grandmother, “Janie B”, no longer knew my name. That same strong woman who shared my love for vanilla ice cream and laughed at our family jokes could only stare blankly at my face. I miss her; but, unfortunately, that’s not where Alzheimer’s stopped. My grandmother, Mary, has lived with the same diagnosis for the last decade. I never imagined a future in which my Grandmother would lose our special memories. In this past year alone, my grandmother’s quick decline created a need for Memory Care. Within six months, she qualified for HOSPICE Home Health Care. Gone is the independent and self-sufficient woman I once knew. Her life is now totally dependent on my family. As a young advocate partnering with the Central Georgia Alzheimer’s Association, countless opportunities are enabling me to initiate change to #ENDALZ in my community, my state and across the nation. After advocating for the BOLD Infrastructure Act, it was signed into law this year – the beginning of successfully bridging the gap to provide caregivers stability both financially and emotionally. I am honored to be a part of a movement to #ENDALZ.
  • LANA WILSON

LANA WILSONRetired RN / Current Therapy Dog Handler

If it is to be, it is up to ME!
  • REGENE ROSS

REGENE ROSSSales and Marketing Manager

My mother is suffering and it's hard to watch. I'm worried about my aunts, my sisters, my cousins, my friends and myself. I want to be able to enjoy my future grandchildren. I want to move from worry to work. Let's make Alzheimer's a memory.
  • LYN BOYD

LYN BOYDMs

My mother was the definition of grace, courage and unconditional love. I am grateful for the gifts she gave and the life lessons she was committed to teaching me. She was the greatest example of love in action I have ever known. My hope is to honor her memory every day by living and loving as passionately as she did and to be an active part of the ‘army’ of women committed to fighting Alzheimer’s Disease.
  • BRENDA HAWKINS

BRENDA HAWKINSWellness Advocate

Being the care-giver for my mother-in-law for five years, I have first-hand experience of the devastating impact that dementia has to an entire family. We must find the cause and prevent this deadly disease. Proud to be among the WAM movement!
  • MARIAH ELLIS

MARIAH ELLISProfessional Organizer

I'm the caregiver to my father with early-onset Alzheimer's. His mother died from it when I was 16. My mom's mom is in the late stages of it, and I have one copy of APOE4.
  • JAMIE BONFOUR

JAMIE BONFOURMs.

Alzheimer's disease is horrific. I care for my Mom who suffers daily....she doesn't understand what is happening to her...it is heartbreaking.
  • RUTH DRAYER

RUTH DRAYERArtist

Recovering (nicely) from a brain injury. I know a healthy brain is everything. Continually working on it!
  • SHAYNA ADANIEL

SHAYNA ADANIEL Millennial Alzheimer’s Advocate

I watched my grandfather for years, as he took on the role of primary caregiver for both his father, and sister. I watched my mother and grandmother try their hardest to be a support to him, and saw first hand, the toll that Alzheimer’s takes on entire families. I joined my local Walk to End Alzheimer’s Committee when I was 17. Now at 23, I have attended a Leadership Summit, 4 State Advocacy Days, 4 National Forums, acted as my Walk’s first AIM chair, raising awareness for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Advocacy arm, and even become an Ambassador to my State Representative in Florida’s 21st District. I have adjusted my career path and now work as a Program Specialist at a local Memory Care Facility. Additionally, I have recently become certified to facilitate support groups so that I may better serve my residents’ families. With each opportunity I am given, I know that I am taking more steps towards relieving the burden that Alzheimer’s has placed on over 5 million Americans and the 16 million caregivers who dedicate their lives to them.
  • JENNIFER COLVIN

JENNIFER COLVINMrs b

I’m really excited about this movement. My dad has it and my grandmother and her twin had Alzheimer’s disease. I am praying it ends with them. Knowledge is power! Thank you Maria for this opportunity!
  • ELAINE HANSON

ELAINE HANSONHead of Operations

In support of all families living with Alzheimer's. Bring on a cure!
  • DIANE LOWERY

DIANE LOWERYeducator

My grandmother and now my mom have dementia. I don't want to continue the legacy!
  • KAREN MORLEY PEABODY

KAREN MORLEY PEABODYMrs.

Currently, I am my mother’s caregiver. I’ve left the workforce, but wouldn‘t change this precious time I have left with her for anything.
  • LINDA ROBERTSON

LINDA ROBERTSON

I want to fight for the memory of my Mother and for those who are currently battling this disease. I also want to fight for my Sisters who hope they will not be stricken during their lifetime.
  • ANNMARIE

ANNMARIEBrown

I have been blessed with not having to deal with Alzheimer's disease on a personal level. I do care for many patients and their families who are dealing with it. I am honored to be a part of this movement for all who unfortunately confront it head-on.
  • STEPHANIE

STEPHANIE

My mother passed away in 2017 after a horrible battle with this disease. My grandmother and great-great grandmother also died from this disease. I am next - then my daughter. Let’s find a cure now!
  • SHERRY COOK

SHERRY COOKMs.

Caring for my 84 year old mom.
  • CARMEN BUCK

CARMEN BUCKAuthor, Speaker, Photographer and Nurse Practitioner

We have no defense for beauty and fragility. I left a 4 decade career as a nurse practitioner to heal using my camera and tell the stories of family caregivers and those with dementia. "Just See Me-Sacred Stories of Dementia" was published in 2018. It is filled with 13 stories of family caregivers along with portraits. The healing power of photography became clear during my work with this project. Families referred to the portraits as 'priceless treasures' even though they weren't too excited about them at the start. Every time of our life is part of our legacy, and that was clear. The stories inspire, impact and influence in big ways. I would love to be more involved with WAM
  • CAROLINA

CAROLINAEngineer

I lost my great aunt to Alzheimer’s and saw the devastation of the disease. I want to help find a cure and raise awareness about all aspects of Alzheimer’s.
  • KATIE KELLY

KATIE KELLYDaughter, Mother, Sister, Friend

My mother, Mary Verhovek, is 87 and has been living with dementia for the past 5-6 years. My father, Jim, also had dementia. It's been difficult. My siblings and I have been going through the confusing task of navigating this complicated disease and what to do for a long time. Since my dad has passed almost 6 years ago my sisters and I have seen our mothers steady decline. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She had tons of friends. She was fun, stylish and feisty! She was always positive! Thankfully, we still see glimpses of all of these wonderful attributes despite her disease. But my sisters and I are worried that we're next. I want to help all of us who are living with this fear. I'm ready to get going and get involved, not only for my sisters and I, but for all of us out there.
  • SARAH B. SMITH

SARAH B. SMITHAuthor/Speaker

In honor of my Mom, Rebecca "Beauty" Bearden.
  • CATHERINE WHITE

CATHERINE WHITEMs.

I would love to learn more and help. This affects not only the person, but the family.
  • JAN WHITTINGHAM

JAN WHITTINGHAMFashion Designer

My father passed of Alzheimers after what Nancy Reagan aptly called,"the long goodbye." My mother patiently cared for him until she couldn't any longer. He spent the last 5 yrs of his life in assisted living. It's a brutal disease for all involved. We have to continue to support research for a cure.
  • LINDA LARSON CARR

LINDA LARSON CARRCEO & Founder, Faculty Ed Solutions, LLC

In 2016 my sister (step sister) was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. This was devastating to our family and tragically, resulted in family dysfunction, communication breakdown, and disunity--that still exists today.
  • DONNA BARTON

DONNA BARTONSocial Worker

Alzheimer's messed with the wrong family: my mother, her sister/my aunt, and my mother-in-law. This disease is terribly personal to me. I am trying to learn as much as I can......
  • ANN KENNELLY

ANN KENNELLYMs

Always look on the bright side of life!
  • LORI THOMPSON

LORI THOMPSONMrs.

My mom just died from dementia and was being treated with Alzheimer’s symptoms. Approximately 15 years ago she had carotid bypass surgery. The other side was blocked more than they thought, thus leaving her brain without oxygen for a period of time. Had mom’s diet been better, she might not have needed this surgery. 5 days before her death she was “with it” enough to think and form the words,”I feel so lost.” Two days before she died her granddaughter spoke to her via FaceTime. As I held the phone over mom’s very still body, mom could focus for a minute and formed 3 syllables to say her name, “Angela.” Mom had two moments of clarity the week she died and spoke. She had been most non-verbal for several months beforehand.
  • SHEILA E. BLOOMQUIST

SHEILA E. BLOOMQUISTMD

My mother Ita Wilmoth Bloomquist recently lost her battle with Lewy Body Dementia on November 6, 2018. We must do all we can to find ways to help patients and families against the terrible curse of dementia illnesses. I am including a photo of her in her memory. On Sat. May 25, 2019 we return to Limerick, Ireland where she was from, to bury her ashes in the family plot.
  • KATHIE MCDANIEL

KATHIE MCDANIELRN

I want to be a part of Womens Alzheimer's movement and community to help understand and eradicate this disease.
  • RENA K GOINS

RENA K GOINSBoard Member Mindful Care

Research is essential! But so is care - at our respite care day-facility we help with loving, licensed day services for participants and their families. #MindfulCare
  • JUDITH STINSON COWAN

JUDITH STINSON COWANMother

My Mother, both of her sisters, and their Father all suffered from Alzheimers/Dementia. Caregiving is hard. Watching is harder. I am 61 and want my brain to be better for my daughters sake. It's up to us.
  • LISA APPELBAUM

LISA APPELBAUMMrs

I have a higher risk of getting Alzheimer’s due to my genes and I’m ready to get involved.
  • AMY YOTOPOULOS

AMY YOTOPOULOSAging and End of Life Expert

I am a gerontologist working at the Stanford Center on Longevity as the Director of the Mind Division. Personally, I am also a family caregiver for my father-in-law who has dementia. I would love to help in any way possible. Thank you.
  • GILLIAN ROSE

GILLIAN ROSEColor Scientist

As a color scientist, I understand how color stimulates memory. Having just relocated from NYC to LA, I would love to become involved.
  • JILL ITTNER

JILL ITTNERMrs

Miss you mom ❣️Ann Lantz-Gosser
  • JANICE ALPERN

JANICE ALPERNMrs.

My father had Alzheimer's and my sister-in-law currently has it. I am 79-years-old and am very interested in learning more about this dreaded disease. I attend some of the Lunch and Learn programs at the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas but would like to be a part of WAM.
  • SHELLEY DONAHUE

SHELLEY DONAHUETeacher of the Visually Impaired/ Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist

My grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in the early 70's when most doctor's were still calling it pre-senile dementia. I do remember the panic and worry in my grandmother's face as she tried to navigate her work day, and trying to keep him safe. I would often walk beside him as we went in public places and as a pre-teen, I do remember being embarrassed when he would speak out at inappropriate times.
  • MARYLOU MARQUEZ

MARYLOU MARQUEZCare Manager

For nearly 7 years, I worked at the Southern California Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and Alzheimer's Greater L.A. in their Inland Empire offices. My maternal grandmother died of Alzheimer's Disease, my mom is showing signs of early to mid-stages of the disease, and my father (the youngest of 12) appears to have MCI. I'm very passionate about this disease, making people aware of it, educating, and advocating for those who have the disease and are caring for those suffering from some form of dementia.
  • ANN CAMPANELLA

ANN CAMPANELLAManager of AlzAuthors.com and Author of Motherhood: Lost and Found

My mother started showing signs of Alzheimer's when I was in my early 30's. She lived with the disease for 14 years. I was honored to be one of her caregivers, yet living with Alzheimer's was a devastating experience. Since then, I've had the opportunity to work with AlzAuthors.com, an organization that offers a wide selection of resources for Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers. I'm grateful to be able to join with other women to share compassion, fight this disease and lift up those on the journey.
  • VICKI TAPIA

VICKI TAPIAFormer caregiver for my parents; Manager at AlzAuthors

My parents were both diagnosed with dementia; Mom with Alzheimer's disease and Dad with Parkinson's-related dementia, within a few months of each other in 2004. I was their caregiver for the next four and five years. As part of the management team for AlzAuthors, I'm in daily contact with other caregivers, past and present, as we work to lift the stigma and silence surrounding Alzheimer's and other dementias through our books and blogs. We all await the day the riddle is solved and the key found which unlocks the door to a cure.
  • SUSAN CUSHMAN

SUSAN CUSHMANAuthor

I lost my grandmother to Alzheimer's in the 1980s, and my mother in 2016. Read our story in my memoir TANGLES AND PLAQUES: A MOTHER AND DAUGHTER FACE ALZHEIMER'S.
  • CATHERINE SANICKI

CATHERINE SANICKIHomemaker

I was caretaker for my mom for five years.
  • ELEANOR BELL

ELEANOR BELLFlight Attendant

I’m the daughter of someone with Alzheimer’s and even though my mom is still in denial, I am taking this fight on full force for the sake of the rest of our lives together. I’ve always looked up to Maria Shriver and never realized she was so involved with this very important mental health challenge that threatens us all!
  • LYNN ABELN MEYER

LYNN ABELN MEYERMrs.

My Mom, Grandma, Great Aunt. I don’t want to be next.....
  • LISA CHIN

LISA CHINMrs.

My mother had Alzheimer's for seven years before she died in 2017. She had been a very creative person, art teacher, loving mother and grandmother who was very involved in her family's lives before she started showing symptoms of memory loss. At that time we were not aware of how a poor diet (she loved her steak and baked goods) and lack of sleep would contribute to her disease. It was so difficult losing her each time she progressed to the next stage of the disease. I know many people affected by Alzheimer's and want to help in informing and educating others on what we can do. I am very proactive in eating the right foods, sleeping well and exercising to keep my brain healthy.
  • STAFINIA KOUTSOUMBARIS

STAFINIA KOUTSOUMBARISStudent - Psychology

My grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s a year ago; not only has it affected her day to day activities but also our family as a whole. Not many people are educated enough when it comes to how an unhealthy lifestyle significantly increases your chances in getting diagnosed. I am excited to be a part of such an informative and educated movement!
  • SARAH BRADLEY

SARAH BRADLEYOperations Manager

Fighting to ENDALZ for my children and their children
  • KELLY GREENE

KELLY GREENERecruiter

I'm joining this network to educate and empower myself. It is encouraging to join a community of active and engaged women who are focused on making an impact in this area. I'm doing this for myself and afflicted family members.
  • JEAN LEE

JEAN LEEAuthor of Alzheimer's Daughter and Cofounder and manager of AlzAuthors

Sharing personal experiences with Alzheimer's to support others.
  • FARAH EL MILIGUI

FARAH EL MILIGUIMrs.

To my Anna.
  • MARIANNE SCIUCCO

MARIANNE SCIUCCOAlzAuthors Co-founder and Manager

I am a daughter of dementia and a registered nurse who has worked with hundreds of patients and families living with dementia. As an author, I helped found the grassroots organization AlzAuthors, a global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from their personal experience to light the way for others.
  • ANN POPENFOOSE

ANN POPENFOOSEDaughter and Caregiver

I have been a caregiver for my mom, who has suffered from Alzheimer's Disease for over 4 years. My father, who passed away in 2004, also suffered from this horrible disease!
  • JULIANA PARKES

JULIANA PARKESTeacher, mom, daughter

I want to be a part of a big group of people who work for positive change. My mother and grandmother passed away from Alzheimer's. I would love to help with any support that I can to research and find a good treatment or cure for this disease.
  • JAN W. MCINTYRE

JAN W. MCINTYREAmbassador - Georgia

I am in this fight to find a cure for this dreadful disease!!
  • LORI-RENEE DIXON JAMES

LORI-RENEE DIXON JAMESPresident/CEO

I have been involved with the fight against Alzheimer's disease for many years. It touched many friends and family members, and recently moved closer to home, claiming my father in 2018. After my father's death, I established The James M. Dixon Foundation for Alzheimer's and Dementia Research and Support, Inc. This is a grant-giving and intentional care training organization, that also has a bill waiting to be submitted to Congress for consideration.
  • LYNNE VAN ARTSDALEN

LYNNE VAN ARTSDALENMs.

My Mom has advanced dementia. It is heartbreaking.
  • KAY ROLLER

KAY ROLLERMSEd

My mother, at 90 years old, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. My family and I felt it was because she was 90. Medication did not work. It turned my sweet ,very modest mother into one who barricaded herself, naked at her nursing home! Then 5 years ago my oldest sister, 21 years older than me, died of Alzheimer’s. I’m scared to death, at age 64, that Alzheimer’s is in my future.
  • TORIE SPANNINGER

TORIE SPANNINGERMs

Protect the brain. Educate women.
  • IRENE CRUZ

IRENE CRUZJust list dad but have learned so much

Alzheimer's invaded and stole my dad and his brothers, and I know that it can easily sneak up on me or the women in my life. I am an emotional and intellectual warrior against this thief. I am honored to join the fight.
  • RONDA NIXON

RONDA NIXONFinding a cure!

My mom currently has Alzheimer's and my aunt and uncle both passed away from this horrible disease. I join the fight to find a cure!
  • MECHELE HARDY

MECHELE HARDYMs

Educate and prevent.
  • SARA BRAND

SARA BRANDTrue Wealth Ventures Founding General Partner

Excited to continue to support brain health research and drive awareness of the millions of women, both patients and caregivers, impacted by Alzheimer's!
  • ROZ HARRIS

ROZ HARRISFounder & CEO

Most women are surrounded by people who don't help her and that means most women are not a part of a community that will help her live healthy and happy. WAM is doing something about that! I want to support your mission because I've seen the healing power of great fitness, nutrition and well-being on the brain of women.
  • NAVNEET TIKU

NAVNEET TIKUMrs.

My mom has Alzheimer's and it has been very hard to see her in the state she is now. I want to learn more about Alzheimer's and help find a cure. Maria, thanks for creating the awareness about Alzheimer's and starting this movement. Like you said in your article, we are not alone.
  • DANA CORWIN

DANA CORWINdaughter, Mother, friend, nurse

Our connection is through my mother-Yvonne. She passed from Alzheimer's in 2017 after a long journey of faith, discovery and perseverance. She was the strongest women I know. My family carries her memory and legacy forward in our dedication to the mission of ending Alzheimer's and ensuring dignity in care.
  • RUTHANN HOGUE

RUTHANN HOGUE

Alzheimer's needs to be stopped from claiming lives. This movement is so important.
  • CATHY EDWARDS

CATHY EDWARDSWife, Daughter, Mother, Grandmother, Passionate advocate

I am dedicated to making a difference, in memory of my precious mother Verna "Jean " Myers who never stopped singing, in spite of losing her voice to dementia at 90 years of age.
  • ANNA MARIE FRANK

ANNA MARIE FRANKWellness Specialist

My journey with Alzheimer's started when my great grandmother was diagnosed. I remember as a child visiting her. Some days she would know us and others she wouldn't. The compassion and lessons I learned back then about taking care of your elders and continuing to support a loved one, even when you may feel they don't know you anymore is so important. I have chosen to get tested for the markers that could tell me if I have a predisposition for the disease. I have worried I too may fall victim. I have committed my adult life to exercising, eating healthy, and keeping my brain sharp by continuing to learn and develop as an individual. I know this will help! I love this movement and all the beautiful women involved! Together we CAN make a difference!
  • CHRIS CORWIN

CHRIS CORWINMs

"Health, Vitality & Full Self-Expression" is the vision I try to live by for myself. Trained as a healthcare professional, it doesn't make me immune from life's events that impact my health and my loved ones. My mother, at the 'young' age of 73 was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and 3 years later is diagnosed as 'middle stage'. We have no known history of Alzheimer's in our family, but I believe today's lifestyles and pressures were strong components to the determinants of her developing the disease. Alzheimer's today is what heart disease was in the 80s. More research and prevention measures need to be identified, along with overall education. Thank you WAM for taking a focused stand for women, given what research is now showing! It may not help my mother in her lifetime, but it will help me and others after me. This is coming from someone who is passionate about life and health! Chris
  • LUCIA PARIS

LUCIA PARISDementia Educator, Lifestyle & Leisure Director

Educating and advocating for the people living with Alzheimer's and their care partners and teaching prevention are my passions. Please join me in this fight. Together we can tackle Alzheimer's. God bless you and keep praying for the people living with this disease, their care providers, and most of all a cure. We're getting closer every day!
  • NANCY DILISI

NANCY DILISIcaregiver

I am the wife of a 57 year old husband who was diagnosed 2 years ago of early onset Alzheimer’s. There has to be more help and awareness of this horrible disease, We need a cure!!!
  • NATALIE PARSONS

NATALIE PARSONSDaughter

My family has been affected by Alzheimer’s, and I want to find ways to help! More recently I found some research on craniosacral that may help and am looking for any other helpful resources to share!
  • DONNA MORSE

DONNA MORSEGrandaughter

My hope is someday no one will feel the pain of Alzheimer's
  • SASHA KERBEL

SASHA KERBELMrs

Thank you for the incredible work you are doing. Embarrassed to say that although I knew of Alzheimer’s, I knew nothing ABOUT it and only found out more at the Television Industry Advocacy Honors Awards. Now I’m concerned about it, and want to be informed.
  • JILL MARTIN BUCK

JILL MARTIN BUCKClinical Research Nurse

As a nurse involved in Alzheimer's Research and a daughter of a mom with end-stage dementia, I am dedicated to finding a cure to this devastating disease. ALL IN HERE! I am definitely ALL IN!
  • RHONDA SPAID

RHONDA SPAIDMs

Caregiver to my husband with Alzheimer's Disease.
  • MARIA STEPANYUK

MARIA STEPANYUKDirector

My grandma had Alzheimer’s, and I really want to know about that disease and how to help prevent it, as well as spread the word
  • PAMELA MCCULLOUGH

PAMELA MCCULLOUGHMs.

My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's back in the early 2000's. We could have slowed down her progression in the early 90's with the right information. I don't want to go through that with my daughter. I lost my mom way before she left us physically. Let's find a cure. NOW.
  • ANTONIA GAUER

ANTONIA GAUERMs.

As a medical writer, I have often been called upon to write an article on Alzheimer's Disease. Over the years, the science has been evolving and we are now in a more informed place. I applaud Maria for setting up this website as AD seems to be forgotten among the multitude of articles on breast cancer and heart disease. What stands out to me is the need for better sleep (more deep sleep phases), nutrition (get those Omega 3s!) and regular physical activity. Let's stamp out this horrible disease forever and let's do it soon!
  • GINA AND SOPHIA PASTINO

GINA AND SOPHIA PASTINODaughter and Grandaughter

We are Mim's daughter and granddaughter. Mim was an incredible watercolorist but this disease took that from her. She doesn't know who we are anymore but we think she can still feel our love for her. We are are committed to doing everything possible to find a cure!
  • LAURA CHILDERS

LAURA CHILDERSMrs.

I want to win this battle for all woman! We had a beloved aunt who died with Alzheimer's & I am currently a caregiver for a woman who has dementia. We have to win!!
  • DEE JONES

DEE JONESMs.

Glad to join in this fight!
  • LINDA SHEAR

LINDA SHEARRetired secretary

My mother died of Alzheimer’s so I’m very worried that it could be hereditary. I just retired this month & I'm eating better, exercising more & challenging my brain & memory by doing some crossword puzzles. I feel the more I can learn the better I will be.
  • ANNA ERDMAN

ANNA ERDMANMommy

I watched my beautiful Mom walk the path of Alzheimer's. My fear is too many of us women will join her. Awareness and support is the key.
  • KIMBERLY BOYER

KIMBERLY BOYERPAc

As a healthcare provider, I have watched patients fade away. As a daughter, I have cared for parents who were effected by this disease. As a mother, I want to protect my children and grand children. As a women, I want to cherish my cognition and keep it healthy as long as possible. As a friend, I want to have new adventures and create new memories.
  • LAURA CEBRIAN

LAURA CEBRIANMrs

Happy to be part of this team and you have all support from Spain. I would like to keep connected and be part of any volunteer work you might organize. Keep up with this initiative! Great work! All the best! Laura
  • Jessica Torres

Jessica TorresMs.

I want to be a part of this movement for my grandmother:)
  • NICOLE ATKINSON

NICOLE ATKINSONMrs

I lost my Mum to Alzheimer’s just over a year ago. It was painful to watch. I’m not sure I’ll ever come to terms with how she passed. I pity anyone going through this.
  • KRISTI ERICKSON

KRISTI ERICKSONMental Health Worker

My Mother passed from Alzheimer’s and I carry the Apoe4 gene. I’m definitely in this fight for a cure. 💜💜💜💜
  • LESLIE SCHREIBER

LESLIE SCHREIBERBiologist

My mind is my most precious gift, because it allows me to connect to the ones I love. I've been intrigued by this thief of a disease for a long time, and want to help stop it.
  • MARGIE DAISEY

MARGIE DAISEYMs.

I support the movement for my mother who was just diagnosed. We will fight this!
  • MARY E. NOLEN

MARY E. NOLENDaughter

Looking at my Mom everyday, slowly loosing herself, feels like I am looking at my future. I want Alzheimer’s and dementia to be discussed as much as cancer!
  • ELEONORA TORNATORE-MIKEAH

ELEONORA TORNATORE-MIKEAHCEO

Supporting families is my passion.
  • TRACY BARTLETT

TRACY BARTLETTMrs

Lost my mom to this cruel disease 2 months ago. She was my best friend. She was sick for 7 years. I also lost my grandmother and 3 aunts. I am a very healthy 57. My daughter is only 19. I pray that ALZ is not my fate. It can NOT be my fate. I worry about it every day.
  • AMY MCGREGOR

AMY MCGREGORMs.

I am a disabled, single, 43 year old woman who suffers from CVID (Common Variable Immunodeficiency); however I am actually the caregiver for both of my parents. My dad suffers from dementia and my mom suffers from pulmonary fibrosis. My boyfriend’s mom passed away from early onset Alzheimer’s in 2009. I am very interested in contributing to the movement and learning about resources for caregivers.
  • MICHELLE GREEM

MICHELLE GREEMEntrepreneurs

I fight for those who can no longer fight for themselves. I know the struggles of a caregiver firsthand and want to make it a more supportive and inclusive environment for caregivers in the workplace.
  • TAMIKA JACKSON

TAMIKA JACKSONAdministrator

I work with Home Care Assistance of Denton County, 9 plus years. I am LMSW, RN, and Administrator. My organization is affiliated with the Alzheimer's Association, Parkinson's Foundation, Susan B. Komen and several chamber organizations in our community. I spend a lot of time in the community guest speaking at different events, a trainer/continuing education instructor and Podcast host for our very own Home Care Assistance of Denton County show that airs on iTunes, Google Cast, Spotify, TuneIn just to name a few
  • MICHELE JAYSON

MICHELE JAYSONGallery Owner & Coach

We must ALL fight to beat this terrible disease! With the power of all these incredible women, we will succeed. Thank you to everyone for showing up and getting involved.
  • CATHY SCHMIDT

CATHY SCHMIDTBusiness Analyst & Insights

My grandmother suffered from Alzheimer’s and now my father is showing signs, leaving me knowing I am next. I must do something now, so my beautiful daughter doesn't follow.
  • TINA TICKLES-DINKEL

TINA TICKLES-DINKELDaughter | #ENDALZ Advocate | Friend Supporter

Since my mother's passing at age 67, eight years following her early onset diagnosis, my service has been to educate and answer questions honestly and respectfully. Providing guidance on what to expect during their journey, supports others in a way my brother and I did not experience. Helping others navigate within the constraints of this disease, helps ease the isolation, helplessness and living-grief associated with caring for a loved one with Dementia. Our story and experience includes the sudden loss of our father and on the same day becoming full-time caretakers of our mom through her rapid decline in her final 27 months. We define being 'sandwiched' between raising young children, being in our 30's, married and working full-time while caring for our mother to the best of our abilities. We are grateful to the unwavering support of our spouses as we cared for our Dementia stricken mother over her ten care transitions, due to her cognitive impairment. Ours was a journey of living-loss, grief and guilt. My focus now includes supporting others, educating and raising awareness through Women's Alzheimer's Movement.
  • SHELLEY DONAHUE

SHELLEY DONAHUETeacher of the Visually Impaired and Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist

My grandfather had Alzheimers in the 70's before it even had a name. At that time, they called it "pre-senile dementia." The progression of this disease was heart- breaking for me and for our family. My once gentle, quiet, kind grandfather became vocal with strong words and odd behavior. My father is now 86 and showing some signs of dementia. We are in the beginning stages of getting a diagnosis. I am 60 years old, I want to know better and do better. Thank you for this platform.
  • RHODA HENDERSON FIELDS

RHODA HENDERSON FIELDSState Deputy Administrator

I want to lend my support to an important mission that has truly impacted the women in my family!
  • CINDY PERSKY

CINDY PERSKY

My why to advocate for more research money to go towards the Woman’s Alzheimer’s Movement is pretty simple. Two of my grandmas and my mother-in- law all died with Alzheimer’s. Now my father has dementia, early-onset Alzheimer’s. My amazing mom is on her third rodeo of being a caregiver.
It’s gets even bigger than that though. I have four children of my own and three of them are women.
Almost 4 years ago I joined a company called Beautycounter and started learning about the hazards of toxic chemicals in personal care products and our overall environment. I started connecting more risk factors by learning about chemicals that are neuro toxins like lead still today found in many lipsticks, aluminum found in deodorant, fluoride found in toothpaste, heavy metals found in makeup and more. I started advocating immediately for more health protective laws realizing it has been since 1938 that there has been a major law changed in the broken beauty industry.
I’m proud to say I am going straight to DC this April through my Beautycounter business and lobby for more health protective laws. Only two individuals from each state get this honor to use their voice for change.
I knew I must be a part of the solution to help leave this next generation with better solutions to not only prevent Alzheimer’s but to be able to find a cure.
Continuing to use my voice, raising money to keep funding research is the only way. As Maria talks about being an architect of change, I know I want to fall under that category when people talk about me. It’s the only way to leave a legacy behind for my children and generations to come.
Our fundraiser was called GET CRAZY FOR YOUR BRAIN and I am doing just that!
  • TERESA CORRAL

TERESA CORRALMs.

I have witnessed too many people I know and love or have known and have loved suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s. The toll is not limited to the victims of the terrible disease; it ripples to family and friends as you lose your loved one before they are physically gone from this world. This cause is near and dear to my heart. I want to get involved in helping find a cure. My first step was a fundraiser for my birthday. #alzheimerssucks
  • DONNA POWELL

DONNA POWELLAdvisory board member

After caring for my mother post-stroke, I became a hospice dementia volunteer Pivoting from marketing consulting to healthy aging programs. I want to help the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement and bring it to my community.
  • ELIZABETH WALDRON

ELIZABETH WALDRONCaregiver

My family has a history of Alzheimers. I lost my Dad in 2018 to Alzheimer's. His mother, sister and aunt all proceeded him in the same disease. One of my siblings is starting to exhibit short term memory loss in her 60's. I would like to be in the loop of this beautiful group of women as my siblings and I journey forward.
  • PAMELA KIMMEL

PAMELA KIMMELGroup Support Specialist

I am a warrior of change. I work at a nonprofit facilitating love and support groups for a current Alzheimer’s research study. I feel empowered and I know that everything in my life has lead me to be where I am right here and right now. Much gratitude for all of you!
  • DIANA KNIGHT

DIANA KNIGHTDepartment of the Army, Civilian,Retired

My life changed 10 years ago with my husband’s diagnosis of early onset dementia. The journey was horrific for him, the family and friends. Information and shared knowledge is key to caring for the sick and their caregivers.
  • DONNA DE LEVANTE RAPHAEL

DONNA DE LEVANTE RAPHAELDirector of National Memory Screenings

My mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's 8 years ago. It has not only affected her activities of daily living but also our family. As her caregiver, though it may hurt, I have formed a new relationship with my mother over the years. It is one of love, passion, care, support and respect. When the diagnosis was made, I changed my entire focus to ensure that as many people as possible from every group learned about this disease. Since I cannot cure the disease, I promote brain health, the importance of memory screenings, early detection and social engagement because these actions will allow an individual to plan for their future and the future of their families. Despite the diagnosis a person can still experience a good quality of life.
  • LAUREN BRANDON

LAUREN BRANDONMrs.

I have lost seven family members to Alzheimer's and my mother is ill.
  • LAURA CHILDERS

LAURA CHILDERSMrs.

I want to win this battle for all women! We had a beloved aunt who died with Alzheimer's and I am currently a caregiver for a woman who has dementia. We have to win!!
  • KRIS VANNEST

KRIS VANNESTMs.

My grandmother had Alzheimer's and it was hard to watch her decline. It always worries me when I forget a simple word for an object or forget this or that. I know forgetting can be a symptom of aging, so I am trying to do my part by playing word games, brain games, and reading. I'm working on the eating too. I don't want to lose myself!
  • KYRA MOORE

KYRA MOOREMs

Brain health is very important to me. I have watched multiple family members suffer from Alzheimer’s disease.
  • KARI JONES

KARI JONESProducer & Talent Agent

One of my worst childhood memories was having my grandmother take me on a walk and accuse me of stealing her clothes. My heart dropped, how could my beloved grandmother even think I would do such a thing. I returned to my dad in tears, which is when I first became aware of Alzheimer's. My grandmother's condition deteriorated over time. We fumbled around the devastating moments when she didn't remember us or became scared of where she was. I wondered what it must feel like to be lost in your own body, in a life that you built. I'm now an adult, watching my dad start to show potentially mild symptoms. It's a stark reminder that this disease is genetic, so now I am making it my mission to learn more about it. What are preventative steps and how can we collectively save others. I'm so appreciative that this movement exists.
  • LUCRETIA GROCE

LUCRETIA GROCEMs.

I want to be part of The Movement. I'm a Homehealth Aide and I lost a person who I cared for and I know how heartbreaking it is. Alzheimers is not pretty at all......We need a SOLUTION
  • NIKOLE FISHER

NIKOLE FISHERGranddaughter

I watched my grandma die from Alzheimer’s. It’s a terrible thing to witness. My grandma took very good care of herself. She did crossword puzzles daily, ate healthy, lived a productive life and the disease still attacked her and took her life. I too am committing to do what I can to support the Alzheimer community and research.
  • KAREN FOUST

KAREN FOUSTMrs

I watched my mother deteriorate from this devastating disease! I have participated in walks and want to continue to do what I can do find a cure for Alzheimer’s! I met Maria Shriver a few years ago in Dallas was was so inspired by her commitment to this great cause.
  • CARLENE MESSINGER

CARLENE MESSINGERAlzheimer's disease advocate

I have been involved in the fight against the Alzheimer's disease since 2016 when my Mother was diagnosed with this devastating disease. I have become an advocate for her and the millions of others suffering from this disease by spreading and creating awareness about it internationally. More specifically, I did an IRONMAN in 2018 in Cozumel, Mexico in honor of my MOM ( she's still alive ) and to raise awareness and funds to find a cure for the disease. I raised over $,8000 by myself for the Alzheimer's Association in doing this IRONMAN event. I would like to be involved with your movement and continue to help spread awareness, support caregivers and fight to find a cure for this disease. Thank you for all that you are doing.
  • GLAPHRE WRIGHT

GLAPHRE WRIGHTMrs

May we all, as women, lift each other up and support one another! If we put our minds to it we will find a cure for this horrific disease!
  • VICTORIA HAUGEN

VICTORIA HAUGENMrs

My dad died in 1999 from Alzheimer’s and my brother is going though Alzheimer’s as we speak. We need to find out more on how to keep our minds & brains healthy. Mind Body & Soul I Pause I Center I Balance My Life Depends On It 💕 🕉
  • CYNTHIA SCHREINER

CYNTHIA SCHREINERMarketing Community Manager

It’s time to end this disease. I watched my grandmother trapped in her own mind for 15 years. It’s a devastating disease, and I know that with the right funding and awareness we can stop or slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.
  • KATIE GATSKI

KATIE GATSKIClient Success Manager, The Media Trust

My father died from early-onset Alzheimer's when I was 27 and he was just 5 days shy of his 63rd birthday. The experience of watching him deteriorate over just about 3 years was devastating for me and my family. Watching him lose himself was the hardest part. I want to bring awareness to this movement because no one should have to watch a parent die so young.
  • PAULA J CARROLL-POMEROY

PAULA J CARROLL-POMEROYSr Audit Manager

I have a history of Alzheimer's in my family. My great grandmother and grandfather had it. Now my mom, who is 85, is currently battling this awful disease. It is heart breaking to see a woman so hardworking and full of life now be lost with Alzheimer's.
  • SUSAN RUNNELS

SUSAN RUNNELSPresident of Your Second Season

Watching my mom struggle with his hopeless disease, I am committed to informing and educating midlife women about Alzheimer's as well as informing them how to protect their brains from getting this disease.
  • MOULINE GUERRIER

MOULINE GUERRIERAPARN, DNP

Caretaker of family member with Alzheimer’s and lifelong long learner to help patients, families and caregivers.
  • NORA MANN

NORA MANNDaughter

Working in memory of my mother and for the future of others
  • BOBBI CARDUCCI

BOBBI CARDUCCICertified Caregiving Consultant and Educator

I am dedicated to supporting caregivers. In addition to educating people about Alzheimer's and consulting with family members to reduce their stress and that of the person in care, I lead a caregiver support group in my community and have written two books for caregivers. I am the co-host of Rodgerthat.show, the podcast dedicated to guiding you through the heavy haze of dementia. The show is named after my father-in-law, for whom I was a caregiver for 7 years.
  • JEANINE HERNANDEZ

JEANINE HERNANDEZDementia Care Specialist

I have helped care for those suffering from this awful disease and now more than ever, because of COVID-19, I have become an extended family member for families that cannot see their loved ones. I want to be a part of a movement that helps inspire, empower and improve the quality of life for those impacted by Alzheimer’s.
  • BETH JORDAN

BETH JORDANMs

We have work to do! The Time is Now! There never will be a better time to get involved. Do something!
  • ALICIA GRIFFITH

ALICIA GRIFFITHPhysical Therapist

Working for a cure!
  • OCTAVIA UMPHLETT

OCTAVIA UMPHLETTProfessor

Looking to "get involved" as Maria stated in her Sunday morning paper email.
  • CLAIRE PAPPAS

CLAIRE PAPPASSVP Business Development

My dear Aunt lived with Alzheimer’s for the last 10 years of her life. It is a devastating disease. I am terrified. We need a cure and FAST.
  • LISA T ASHBROOK

LISA T ASHBROOKInterior Designer

My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's earlier this year and my grandmother also suffered from it. I'm signing up for Marie & Tessie 🙂
  • HEIDI LEGATES

HEIDI LEGATESMSN

I want to be supportive to women suffering or caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s. I also want to be aware and keep my body/brain healthy.
  • CONNIE SWANN

CONNIE SWANNConcerned with family history

My Mother and Grandma suffered from Alzheimer’s along with the entire family.
  • BARBARA WELCH

BARBARA WELCHDaughter of Lois Welch

My mom has Alzheimer’s. She’s in a nursing home. It breaks my heart.
  • YVONNE SANDWEISS

YVONNE SANDWEISSMD

I am always interested in prevention and health. Would love to hear more about Alzheimer's prevention.
  • AMY SCHENK

AMY SCHENKProgram Manager The Alzheimer’s Assn

Alzheimer’s disease is a women’s issue. We are disproportionately impacted by the disease, and traditionally in the role of caregiver. Our brains matter! Love your brain and educate yourself and others! 💜
  • DEBORAH D PIERSON

DEBORAH D PIERSONRunning in Heels Life, SHEO

Emotional resilience is your strongest best version of yourself. The most underrated characteristic is resilience. These are the people that fall hard yet pick themselves up and never quit. They embrace the lesson learned, pivot and reset their mind to evolve and thrive.
  • LOIS CALO

LOIS CALOMrs.

My mother's two older sisters and one younger suffered from Alzheimer's, yet she and a younger sister and brother were spared. I am interested in learning more about prevention to help others and myself avoid this terrible disease.
  • NANCY RICHARDS

NANCY RICHARDSFounder, CEO

As an Activity Professional serving elders for over 33 years, I am continuously inspired by folks living with dementia. Together, may we share our experiences, Inform the public, advocate for positive policies and make dementia part our national plan and conversation.
  • LYNN COOPER

LYNN COOPERSales Representative

As the daughter and granddaughter of Alzheimer’s patients, I am fully committed to spreading the word on measures women can take to protect their brain. I also want to create more awareness around caregiving and the toll it takes on families.
  • LUCIA DEGIUSEPPE

LUCIA DEGIUSEPPEAdvocate

I am a volunteer, advocate and caregiver for my mother who suffers from Dementia. I have become dedicated to joining the efforts of those who also have loved ones suffering with this devastating disease. My involvement has enabled me to help speak for those who are unable to speak for themselves.
  • KIMBERLY PORTER, M.ED

KIMBERLY PORTER, M.ED Early Child Development Educator

LOVE GIVES LIFE! My Mother is living with this disease. One of the greatest gifts anyone can and is able to do for someone is to give time, loving attention, total love and the gift of concern. That and more is what she has given to not only family but others in need. To EVERY CAREGIVER NEAR AND FAR,YOUR Life has been DESIGNED with PURPOSE. YOU make a GREAT IMPACT each and EVERY DAY. Thank YOU for Your Loving CARE. My desire and passion is to learn all that I can and to to be a voice as I learn of this disease. I truly believe that together we will destroy this disease.
  • KYRA MOORE

KYRA MOOREMs

Thank you for all your hard work. I lost my grandmother and father to this awful disease.
  • HOLLY RUFFLE

HOLLY RUFFLETeacher

It is a terrible disease that I would like to help stop.
  • HEIDI J. MCLAUGHLIN

HEIDI J. MCLAUGHLINDaughter

As a daughter with a mom who currently suffers from Alzheimer's, I am hoping to gain more insight & knowledge about prevention for future generations for all families.
  • AMANDA HOLLEY

AMANDA HOLLEYms

This is one disease that scares me the most. My grandpa on my dad’s side had it, and my grandma on my mom’s side has it.
  • LAURA BUTLER

LAURA BUTLERMrs

My family has been effected by this terrible disease.
  • CRYSTAL FARMER

CRYSTAL FARMERMrs

My husband's grandmother had Alzheimer's and it was incredibly difficult to watch her decline in health and relationships. If we can find a cure in my lifetime, I would be forever grateful!
  • DEBRA GOOD

DEBRA GOODRegistered Nurse

My grandmother passed away from this devastating disease, so please help spread the word and take action.
  • BILLIE JO SAGE

BILLIE JO SAGERegistered Nurse

Joining the fight!
  • REGINA MCCUTCHEON

REGINA MCCUTCHEONMs

My mother was diagnosed 18 years before she passed away. I don’t want anyone else in my family to go through that.
  • CARLA

CARLAChristianson

My Mother had it. Her mother had this awful disease. I don’t want it, and I don’t want my daughter or granddaughters to get it.
  • HILDA HERNANDEZ-SEPULVEDA

HILDA HERNANDEZ-SEPULVEDARegistered Nurse

Let's Fight Back!
  • MEGHAN WALSH

MEGHAN WALSHArchitect & Artist

Supporting my mom through Alzheimer's.
  • DOREEN SMYTH

DOREEN SMYTHSuccess Manager

I am a believer that food and exercise are key contributors to our overall health and that more research and focus needs to be given to women specifically. I watched my father's decline as his Alzheimer's disease progressed. It was so upsetting to see a once vital, generous, and funny man deteriorate to a shell of the person he once was. The efforts of WAM are very exciting and give me hope that so many women be saved from the path my father endured.
  • VIRGINIA GALLARDO

VIRGINIA GALLARDORegistered nurse

At the age of 17 I began to work at an Alzheimers/ Dementia center. For 10 years I witnessed how devastating this disease is and how it consumed the life of many patients. They were the reason why I decided to go into the filed of nursing to become a registered nurse. I would like to see this disease come to an end. I know one day a cure will be found.
  • JULIE DEPORTER

JULIE DEPORTERPhD

My mom just started to suffer from dementia. We don’t know yet if it is Alzheimer’s. We have a doctor’s appointment this month. It was very hard to convince her to seek care for her illness.
  • NICOLE SEBASTIAN

NICOLE SEBASTIANMs.

This is a heartbreaking disease. I pray a cure or treatment is found.
  • MARY ANN EAST

MARY ANN EASTProgram Director, Sentimental Journey Singers, Encore Creativity for Older Adults

I conduct and develop choirs for singers diagnosed with early to moderate dementia and their care partners. Music is such an important tool for therapeutic use and joy! I love to see my singers light up when they join voices.
  • KIMI EGO

KIMI EGORegional Director, Yoith Movement Against Alzheimer’s

I applaud all the women who are doing extraordinary work for the Women’s Alzheimer's Movement. Together we can make a difference!
  • SUSAN STIREWALT

SUSAN STIREWALTFounder

Why do US nursing facilities lock Alzheimer’s and dementia individuals in hallways and give them limited access to the outdoors? Why do we not properly staff to give enough people to feed those with dementia that cannot feed themselves? Why do we not feed those with dementia a diet that has been researched to be not only healthier for those individuals with dementia, but is healthy for all geriatric conditions? Why do nursing facility nurses only give out meds in lieu of checking the resident daily for physical and mental health? Why do more and more good memory care facilities only take private pay, which deletes lower and middle class income individuals quality care they so deserve? Why are the nursing facilities extremely understaffed? The answer is money and yet we are the richest nation..... Ever since a car accident 5 years ago, my life was taken away from me as I knew it, therefore, in my new norm, which is permanent, not temporary like the virus, God led me to create a facility that will address all of the above and more! Since the Coronovirus, I have seen people sharing who are spending more time with families, they are making the homemade breads of their grandma’s recipe, they are enjoying their porches more than normal. I am finally being introduced to Maria Shriver's Sunday Morning Paper and now her Alzheimer’s Movement. Did I mention the new concept daycare that will be a part of our skilled nursing village? It’s the same one Maria did a story on in the past. This virus has created relationships with area women who are on a mission for community, even some I didn’t know existed in our little town. Watch as tragedy turns into a new concept skilled nursing facility for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias spread all across the US because that is how we should care for our seniors. Thank you Maria for all of your initiatives!
  • AMY HAWTHORNE

AMY HAWTHORNESingle Working Mamma

My mom has Alzheimer's. Her mom and grandmother also suffered from it. I am here to learn more about the disease and find new ways to help all of us who are impacted by it.
  • MARTHA THOMLEY

MARTHA THOMLEYPresident, SPI

Doing all I can to help those who can no longer help themselves. They would do the same for us, and did at one time! My mother is slowly slipping away from me. I need to know how to best navigate this journey, which is so scary for both of us.
  • KAREN MAGGIO

KAREN MAGGIOMrs.

I am 61 years old and have been diagnosed with dementia, with visual impairment "vertigo" due to Posterior Cerebral Atrophy. I am owning this diagnoses, but not its outcome. I am a prayer Warrior with a beacon of light that is surrounded by the holy spirit, along with Gods love. I am expecting a miracle that my brain will regenerate and heal its self!! Amen
  • STEPHANIE SCHNICK

STEPHANIE SCHNICKPresident + CEO, The Todd & Stephanie Schnick Foundation

My husband and I have joined the movement in honor of my Mother-in-Law who is living with Alzheimer's, as well as my grandmother who passed away at the age of 90 with the disease.
  • JESSICA CALDWELL

JESSICA CALDWELLDr.

As a neuropsychologist at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas, I see women impacted by Alzheimer's nearly every week, either as patients or as caregivers. As a clinician I do my best to provide top quality assessment and recommendations for patients and their families dealing with a wide variety of challenges. As a researcher who focuses on sex differences in Alzheimer's disease, I am working toward a goal of the field having a better understanding of how we diagnose, treat, and reduce risks for Alzheimer's in women. I believe that paying attention to how Alzheimer's is different for women will have impact for everyone.
  • URSULA SANDAU

URSULA SANDAUSenior Research Associate, Oregon Health & Science University

I use my brain to conduct Alzheimer's disease research as it pertains to predisposition of the disease in women. Our research goal is to identify biomarkers that are unique to women with Alzheimer's disease. One day these biomarkers may aid in developing an early diagnostic test, provide insight to the underlying biology of disease progression, or identify a new therapeutic target.
  • LIZ ALVARADO

LIZ ALVARADORadio personality

Fighting against Alzheimer’s for my mom, my warrior and every woman out there fighting this horrible disease.
  • KARIN HEDBYS

KARIN HEDBYSsocial worker

My mom has Alzheimer's.
  • DANA BURLAGE

DANA BURLAGEDaughter/Granddaughter(x2)/Advocate

I lost one grandfather to Alzheimer's and the other to Lewy Body Dementia. My father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's one year ago. This grave disease has affected my family immensely. I look forward to participating in Move for Minds, spreading awareness and supporting the women in this movement!
  • CARRIE MARTIN

CARRIE MARTINEngage Life Activity Instructor

I stand for my grandmother who fought Alzheimer's and for the patients I’ve cared for.
  • JENNIFER PREWETT

JENNIFER PREWETTDaughter

My Mom suffers from Alzheimer's.
  • LINDA SHAFEEK GALGANO

LINDA SHAFEEK GALGANOMrs.

My mission is to educate and help people achieve optimum health.
  • CYNTHIA LLOYD

CYNTHIA LLOYDMs.

My mother had Alzheimer’s. I'd like to be a mentor to those who are caretakers of a loved one, who are grieving.
  • SUZIE MARTIN

SUZIE MARTINMrs

I would love to support and help WAM in anyway! My grandmother passed away from Alzheimer’s, and my mother is in the very advanced stages of the terrible disease. I carry on APoE4 gene! I use many preventative measures I have learned from many in the medical community trying to reverse cognitive decline! Gotta keep going!!! 💜 💜
  • DR. ANITHA RAO

DR. ANITHA RAOCEO, Neurocern

“Fifty million people worldwide are living with dementia today—more than the population of Spain—and the number is estimated to increase to 152 million by 2050. With a chronic shortage of neurologists, currently only 1000 worldwide who specialize in Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia treatments, it means getting accurate diagnoses and the right treatment is hard—and with the projected increase in dementia cases, it will only become harder. There are more than 15 types of dementia with varying types of care recommendations required. As a geriatric neurologist, entrepreneur and chief executive officer and founder of Neurocern, a neuroinformatics platform that improves the longevity and quality of life for patients with dementia and other neurological conditions, I am in the fight to facilitate early and accurate detection and empower families with right information on the various types of neurodegenerative diseases and caregiving tools to increase longevity and improve quality of life. Accurate and early detection is critical because it delineates the appropriate methods of care, enables prompt treatment and potential management of symptoms with medication or other interventions to slow the disease—and in about 10% of cases—reverse it.”
  • ADELA BETSILL

ADELA BETSILLMrs

I am a caregiver for my husband who has had Alzheimer’s for 10 years. I am struggling with burnout and depression and facing financial challenges. I hate this disease and I worry about my mental health. I am only 56. I don’t know where to go from here. My husband is now in a memory care facility but that doesn’t make it any easier.
  • KRISTIN MEEKHOF

KRISTIN MEEKHOFAuthor, Speaker, Life Coach

I'm joining this movement in memory of my late grandfather and in honor of all of the people who are making a difference in the ALZ community.
  • DEBRA CANTRELL

DEBRA CANTRELLMs

I lost my Mom to Alzheimer’s and I fear it for myself.
  • SHERI EWING

SHERI EWINGBusiness Development Coordinator

I cared for and watched my sweet mother pass from this horrific disease. I am devastated at what this disease did to my mother and to my family. We have to find a cure!
  • KATIE GINTHER

KATIE GINTHERExeciutive Assistant/Research Assistant

My mother has had Alzheimer's for several years now. She is the most amazing women I have ever met and an even more extraordinary mother. It has devastated me to see how this disease has slowly taken her from us. We have to continue to take steps aggressively to shine more attention on finding a cure! I love you Mom!
  • ROBYN GRANT

ROBYN GRANTFAMILY CAREGIVER

I am a health coach and wellness investigator. My mother was diagnosed with Dementia about 5 years ago. It took 2 years to get a diagnosis. She was having a lot of trouble prior to that for several years. After a lot of investigating into solutions, I came across Dr Bredesen's info. We started to apply it as diligently as possible, which has not been easy. However, my mother is living well with Dementia and it has been about 10 years since she probably developed the condition. We live with her and we have live in care, which is a new situation, after she was no longer able to stay in Independent or Assisted living due to the mobility issues she developed after several falls. Im so grateful for Dr Bredesen sharing his work.
  • LORI VOEGHTLY

LORI VOEGHTLYMs

My grandma had Alzheimer’s. Watching someone you love slowly loose their life to this awful disease is heartbreaking. The functions that she lost before she passed away were hard to watch. I know she would have been so ashamed of some of these things even though she shouldn’t have been. It was the disease that robbed her of her mind. It was not her fault. It broke my heart to watch her become someone she wasn’t. A prisoner in her own body. We need answers, we need help to find a cure for this disease. Thank you to those that are looking for a cure, doing the research to help us.
  • MISTY M GUTIERREZ

MISTY M GUTIERREZCaregiver

Let's end Alzheimer's!
  • CHERI RASMUSSEN-DODD

CHERI RASMUSSEN-DODDMs

My 87 year old mother was diagnosed recently, although we knew she was slipping. It’s progressing so quickly. I’m scared for her and me as well. I don’t want to be next to forget my family and be a burden.
  • COLLEEN BAKER

COLLEEN BAKERRegistered Nurse

I've been a hospice and palliative care nurse for over 15 years. I have cared for countless patients and their families that have suffered from Alzheimer's disease. I have devoted many years educating patients, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals and the community regarding the epidemic of Alzheimer's dementia. I try to motivate others to spread awareness and hope to someday find a cure.
  • YVONNE GUERRA

YVONNE GUERRACaregiver

Thanks for advancing research into women and Alzheimer's disease. The more we know, the better we will be.
  • VICKIE HARRIS

VICKIE HARRISBusiness Owner

Alzheimer’s has affected my family. There is much to be done and I want to be involved. Thank you for all you do!
  • DONNA ROUFANIS

DONNA ROUFANISMs.

Mom had Alzheimer’s. Let’s prevent this terrible disease
  • LIZZ LEWIS

LIZZ LEWISMrs.

Alzheimer’s has affected my life for the last thirty years. My beautiful grandmother had the disease, as did her father, and my mother was one of her main caregivers and now my mother is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, and I am one of her main caregivers. My mom was finally able to retire after working so hard her entire life and she had dedicated her life to service to others. She was able to impact so many lives and watching her have to give up her volunteer work due to cognitive decline was heart wrenching. Now as a 44 year old married mom of two young kids I am terrified. Terrified that I’m falling short of being the best mom. Terrified of being a bad wife. Terrified of being a bad daughter. Mostly terrified of this destructive disease that seems to be in its fourth generation or more? I’m beyond thankful to this organization for their efforts in finding out why women are more prone to get Alzheimer’s than men. I know there is hope and I’m always looking for it.
  • GLORIA ELIAS

GLORIA ELIASMs

I just turned a Fab 65 and I have to learn as much as I can.
  • CHRISTINE RIKER

CHRISTINE RIKERMs

My sister and I are caring for our father who has Alzheimer’s. We want to do whatever we can to avoid this awful disease.
  • LYNN ABELN MEYER

LYNN ABELN MEYERMrs.

Let’s move and stop this wretched disease.
  • ARLENE S WINNICK

ARLENE S WINNICKHospitality Marketing Executive

I was a caregiver for my partner Richard as he battled frontal lobe dementia. I strongly believe that caregivers are the unsung heroes of our society and their needs and accomplishments are often overlooked by the medical team, friends, families and business colleagues -- as they suffer in isolation. Now that Richard has died, I hope to give meaning to his life by becoming a vocal advocate and champion for all caregivers.
  • HEIDI TOLL CUNNINGHAM

HEIDI TOLL CUNNINGHAMinterior designer

Hello Women's Alzheimer's Movement, My incredible, trailblazing mother sadly passed away on June 2, 2020 at the age of 93. For the past four years, she struggled with dementia. My girlfriend introduced me to your organization and I would like to get involved. Thank you and stay safe!
  • KATIE LACOUR

KATIE LACOURClient Advisor, Gucci

I would like to join this movement to support women throughout the world experiencing and anticipating Alzheimer’s. This disease runs in my family, so I want to do as much as I can to get involved and support!
  • CYNTHIA ROGERS

CYNTHIA ROGERSSales Executive for Abbott Rapid Diagnostics

I am 54 years old. My mother has struggled with Alzheimer's for the last 7 years. I have done genetic testing that determined that I am at high risk for late onset of Alzheimer's. I would love to be part of movement to help find the cure, or if anything, to identify how to change my lifestyle habits to ensure I don't end up with the disease.
  • ROMA SLOBODIAN

ROMA SLOBODIANMrs

Missing my mom without Alzheimer’s
  • LYNDSAY CHANEY

LYNDSAY CHANEYDaughter

My beautiful, optimistic mom was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. She’s been battling it like a true fighter and again showing me so many important lessons and how beautiful she truly is. I will continue to help her and learn from her. I’m ready to spread the word so this disease doesn’t hit someone else I love. Education leads to prevention.
  • KATE WEBB

KATE WEBBSamford University student and Alzheimer's Advocate

When I was seven years old my Papaw was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. At seventeen, I saw the warning signs in my Gran. I fight for the end of Alzheimer's for my family who has been affected by this disease for generations. I have seen the pain it causes both the patient and caregiver and know the weight of it's burden. I know a day will come where no one will lose a loved one to Alzheimer's. I want to be able to say I contributed to a cause worth fighting for- and I have never known a greater one!
  • MEGAN KOOKER

MEGAN KOOKERDementia Friendly Community Coordinator

I fight for my friends with dementia. I see families as their loved ones with dementia slowly change into someone they no longer know. It's absolutely heartbreaking. I would love to see a world without Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. I'm joining the fight to find a cure! Until there's a cure, I'll continue to see people with dementia as valuable humans with an invaluable, unique perspective on the world.
  • ALINE BERGER

ALINE BERGERMSc, MD, Geriatric Psychiatrist

I've studied and cared for patients with Alzheimer's in Brazil for the past decade, in my private clinic, hospitals and in a long-term institution for the elderly. I came into contact with your movement in my research for possible prevention techniques and wellness for my female patients and caregivers and was very impressed with the work you've been doing. I aim to help empower them to learn more and take actions that will benefit their lives.
  • JULIE HAYDEN

JULIE HAYDENMrs

I live alone, self managing my young onset dementia. I support and advocate for others through my own Facebook group and by working with Dementia Alliance International.
  • ANNE-LOUISE UNDERWOOD

ANNE-LOUISE UNDERWOODMrs

My 93 year old mum has Alzheimer's dementia. Before our time with her, I had no understanding of what dementia actually meant. As a result I have become deeply committed to furthering knowledge about this truly awful condition, and this truly awful journey that is being a caregiver. It is truly wonderful to be part of this Wall!
  • CARMEN L. ROCA

CARMEN L. ROCAMother, Wife, Daughter, Friend

I lost my mom from Alzheimer's in 2007. I was her everything including her caretaker. It was heartbreaking to see the strong woman who raised me become fragile and not be able to answer my questions like she used to. My only silver lining was that she always knew who I was, somehow. That is why I join, I move, I spread the word, I donate, I advocate and I will support this cause. For her and for myself and for the millions who have fought, are fighting and will have to fight. We will find a cure!
  • LUCIA FIORINI PARIS

LUCIA FIORINI PARISEducator

Live. Love. Don't forget to laugh. End Alzheimer's.
  • JANE ROWEN

JANE ROWENFounder, AgeHappy

As someone who is APOE4 positive and whose father has dementia, I am passionate about educating and empowering women and want to be a force for change regarding Alzheimer's.
  • SUSAN GIBSON

SUSAN GIBSONMs

My Mother had dementia and I am doing everything I can to help others keep and improve their memory. I LOVE what the Women's Alzheimer's Movement is doing!
  • PATTY BAMBER-BONELLI

PATTY BAMBER-BONELLIPhotographer

Thank you, Maria Shriver, for bringing awareness and commitment to ending Alzheimer’s! My brother is across the country fighting this horrible disease and he is only 66 years young! I am committed to helping with the endeavor of educating and ending Alzheimer’s through this movement. God bless!
  • PHYLLIS BARKMAN FERRELL

PHYLLIS BARKMAN FERRELLGlobal Head External Engagement, Lilly Alzheimer's Disease

Fighting for my sons....
  • MEGHAN MCCLEERY

MEGHAN MCCLEERYDaughter and caregiver

To all our mothers and grandmothers who cared dearly for us from infancy to adulthood, it’s time we care for you, give back and find a cure for this disease. Mom, I know your spirit and essence remains inside you, regardless of whether or not you remember me from one moment to another. Love recognizes Love.
  • KATE CASSIANO

KATE CASSIANOHigh School Student/Self-published author

  • JANE HAYNOR

JANE HAYNORMrs.

My name is Jane and I am the second of four daughters. My sisters and I have a very strong sister-friendship as well as closeness in age, 59, 58, 57 & 55 years old. A week after our (my twin) brother’s memorial service, my younger sister Kim (age 57) was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease, which was four years ago. She has no children and her primary caregiver & supportive husband is 18 years older. Despite the supplements, hormonal treatments, eastern medicine, holistic methods, emotional roller coaster, protective family support & interactions and organic & wholesome diet, Kim continues to progress quickly. One of the big challenges has been the lack of her age group support. My sisters, brother-in-law, family members and I have all been educating ourselves, looking for test trials, and doing what we can to provide our help, support and love. As we have learned like many others affected by Alzheimer's, this disease is full of heartfelt companionate helplessness...We’re also a family of strong faith, belief in the power of prayer and the good vibes of positive energy & thinking. I have been looking for something to do, support, give back and continue to learn and be apart of something bigger to help make a difference... I would like to find some kind of reason as to “Why” this is happening to my beautiful, lovely, kind, generous, smart sister Kim... where does this lead me? What is the good out of all this heartbreak?
  • VIKY MONE

VIKY MONE@viky_mone

  • JENNY FEINBERG

JENNY FEINBERGCaregiver, Project Manager

It is amazing to be of service to the aging community. Striving to empower people from all walks of life to enjoy a healthy body and mind, supporting those afflicted by Alzheimer's with loving and compassionate care. It is a privilege to join the movement to eradicate this disease affecting so many women.
  • ABBIE SHEFFIELD

ABBIE SHEFFIELDHuman being

Having witnessed my grandfather, grandmother and father deal with Alzheimer's, my husband and I are now caring for my mother-in-law in our home who has the disease. Caretakers all around need support and a community - thank you for creating a safe space for us!
  • LOU SHELTON

LOU SHELTONHousewife

  • LYNNE LAFOND DELUCA

LYNNE LAFOND DELUCAExecutive Director, ACCP

My sweet mother, Violet LaFond just went to heaven after battling Alzheimer's. I gain much comfort in knowing that this horrific disease has now left her body and all of her precious memories are flooding back into her beautiful head. I will keep fighting for you, Mom. And I will always "keep a smile on my face and love in my heart" just like you told me every single day.
  • CARA SMITH-WARD

CARA SMITH-WARDMrs

My mother died from Alzheimer’s in 2020. I want to continue to learn about it.
  • MICHAL SELA

MICHAL SELADr.

  • YVONNE HUMPHRIES

YVONNE HUMPHRIESOwner

Interested in information about Alzheimer’s