My Alzheimer's Story

 

My mom was a very active lady; she bowled, crocheted, and did crossword puzzles in pen. She was my rock and best friend.

At first, I didn't notice her growing forgetfulness. At 66, I thought it was normal. However, forgetting how to get home and putting Cheerios in the freezer were signs of something more serious. Tasks like cooking and crocheting became difficult for her.

In August 2000, Mom went to the doctor for some tests; he confirmed what we suspected all along: Alzheimer's. We now had a name for her strange behavior.

I felt alone, grieving her loss each day before she even passed away. Alzheimer's disease was something we didn't talk about at our house; it was something we kept quiet about. I didn't know that the Alzheimer's Association existed until after Mom's passing. That is when I discovered the Alzheimer's Association of Oklahoma, and I learned that I was not alone.

After Mom passed away in 2003, I learned about the Walk to End Alzheimer's in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and participated in her memory. It was there that I learned about all the valuable information that the Alzheimer's Association Oklahoma chapter had, information I wish I had known while Mom was still alive.

I want other caregivers to know they are not alone and to encourage them to reach out to the Alzheimer's Association. They can find resources like the Helpline, caregiver support groups, the Walk to End Alzheimer's, and Do What You Love to End Alz.   

I have made it my mission to spread the word and help others who may not know about the Alzheimer's Association. I want other caregivers to know that they are not alone, and that their local Alzheimer's Association offers a wealth of information, as well as supportive and caring volunteers and staff.