Andy’s mother-in-law began to show signs of memory loss during COVID. After she was hospitalized for a procedure, things began to really change. She had a negative reaction to some medication she was on, and they watched in sadness as she quickly declined. Soon, she required full-time care at a professional facility. Even though she only recognizes them occasionally, they find great joy and gratitude in the moments she shows signs of a shared memory.
“Watching our Mom rapidly decline, get confused, forgetful, and no longer herself, was the hardest part. She is the sweetest lady and kindest heart you could ever wish for in a Mom, yet is no longer able to show it in her day-to-day life,” says Andy, “but she is a fighter and has shown strength in her will to live on.”
Looking for more information and support surrounding Alzheimer’s, Andy found the Alzheimer’s Association and The Longest Day Campaign. With a date already set on the calendar to climb Washington’s northernmost volcano, Mount Baker, Andy decided to use this opportunity to honor his mother-in-law and fundraise to support research and resources with the Alzheimer’s Association.
“My wife and I have a new appreciation for our health and the importance of living with appreciation. We are prioritizing health, happiness, family, and life experiences. We do as much as possible to be with our Mom and ensure she has the care and comforts she deserves,” says Andy, “Cherish your time with your family. Learn how to live healthily to help protect and minimize risk for yourself from this disease. Learn to recognize signs in your loved ones.”
Andy was able to raise an incredible $2,750 dollars that will help fund research and support services for families facing Alzheimer’s and dementia.
“The more funds that go toward research and support, the more hope there is for future people facing this disease. Treatments and support will continue to improve until this is a manageable condition with full treatment and recovery.”
You can still support Andy’s fundraiser and this amazing achievement by visiting his Longest Day page!
It’s volunteers like Andy who inspire us to keep fighting. Just like climbing a mountain, we have to keep pushing for forward motion, keep believing in our fight and one day that perseverance will help us find a cure, much like it helped Andy reach the summit of one of Washington’s most beautiful mountains.
The Longest Day is the day with the most light — the summer solstice.
Join us to fight the darkness of Alzheimer’s through a fundraising activity of your choice. The funds you raise advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. Learn more and get involved at alz.org/tld.
If you are a caregiver or an individual living with Alzheimer’s, you don’t have to do this alone. The Alzheimer’s Association offers free support groups throughout the region. To learn more, visit alzwa.org/support.
You can also find support and resources by calling our 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900. Our helpline is available around the clock, 365 days a year. This free service is staffed by specialists and master’s-level clinicians and offers confidential support and information to people living with dementia, caregivers, families, and the public.