September 21, 2018 – Today, World Alzheimer’s Day, an internationally recognized holiday, marks the perfect time to talk about a condition that is near and dear to my heart. Like many, Alzheimer’s disease has personally impacted me and my family. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the disease is the most common form of dementia and is associated with memory loss, but it is so much more than that (1).

It is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease, which means that it usually starts slowly and worsens over time. Symptoms vary for each individual, but can include disorientation (including easily getting lost), mood swings and behavioral issues. As a person’s condition declines, they may no longer be able to carry out the simplest tasks and often withdraw from family and loved ones (1). My grandpa lived with this disease for many years and my grandma was recently diagnosed.

On days like today, I feel fortunate to work for a company that is dedicated to raising awareness for conditions like Alzheimer’s and to improving lives through communications. On behalf of all our loved ones who have lived with this horrible disease, I encourage you to gather more information, get involved and consider donating so that one day, we may have a cure. Find out more here: https://www.worldalzmonth.org/

(1)  Alzheimer’s Association. “What is Alzheimer’s?”. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers Accessed September 2018