Each year in April, we recognize volunteers and community partners who have made an incredible impact on our work. Congratulations to this year’s award recipients highlighted below. Continue reading Congratulations To Our 2021 Award Recipients
Don Desonier became an Alzheimer’s Association volunteer after losing his wife, Nancy, to early-onset dementia. This year, he is participating in The Longest Day® in her honor. A woman of grace, beauty and limitless love Don’s wife, Nancy, was a professional flute performer and teacher, having graduated from UCLA with a degree in flute performance. Little did she know that her talent and love for … Continue reading My Journey in Honoring Nancy: The Longest Day
By Patricia Hunter, Washington State Long-Term Care Ombuds My name is Patricia Hunter and I am the Long-Term Care Ombuds for Washington State. The Long Term Care Ombuds Program is charged with protecting the rights, dignity and well-being of everyone living in licensed long-term care in our state. I am also a member of the Dementia Action Collaborative (DAC), the workgroup that oversees the implementation … Continue reading Alzheimer’s Advocacy: Improving Outcomes for Families
I got involved with the Alzheimer’s Association early in 2021 after watching my uncle’s Alzheimer’s grow worse, and realizing just how much Alzheimer’s and dementia have affected people around me. I now serve as an ACTor for Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler of Washington’s 3rd Congressional District. Continue reading Rebecca Hodges: My Advocacy Story
By: Anna Wade My name is Anna Wade. I live in Seattle with my husband Dion, my two children, Xander and LC and our dog, Rocky. We love to play outside, travel, cook, be silly and spend time together. Xander and LC go to the same elementary school and Rocky hangs out with me while we work together from home, helping manage federal grants for … Continue reading Spreading Awareness Across the Country: Why I Walk
By: Erin McLaughlin My name is Erin McLaughlin. I came to the United States from my hometown of Moffat, Scotland in 2003 to study for one year at Syracuse University. I had such a great year that I decided to stay on in the US, and once I graduated from Syracuse University, I got my master’s degree from New York University. I lived and worked … Continue reading Making Connections: Why I Walk
This article was originally published by the Alzheimer’s Association Oregon & Southwest Washington Chapter. It has been adapted for the ALZWA blog. ΣΚThe Sigma Kappa sorority brings women together through lifelong opportunities for social, intellectual and spiritual development. In college, members regularly volunteer in their community. This mission carries well past graduation, where sorority alumnae bring their values for personal growth, friendship, service and loyalty … Continue reading Sorority Involvement Strengthens Walk to End Alzheimer’s in the Pacific Northwest
Last year, in the middle of a sermon, Sylvia lost her place and couldn’t remember what she was saying. This was one of the signs Sylvia and Chris noticed before her diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer’s. This year, Sylvia and Chris will participate in the Pierce County Walk to End Alzheimer’s in honor of their family and other families facing this disease. Continue reading Our Love Endures: Why I Walk
By Alisa Carroll I love you, mom. My mom and I have always been best friends. She laughs easily and beautifully and has, her entire life, been the most animated and spirited person I know. She has been my cheerleader and encourager, and me hers –always at one another’s sides in times of need and celebration. One of her dreams was to go to India, … Continue reading Why I Volunteer: Alisa Carroll
The Washington State Chapter has two staff members devoted to this important part of our mission. Together, they plan and manage grassroots advocacy efforts, including organizing a network of Alzheimer’s advocates, to advance issues critical to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, their families, and their caregivers. Continue reading Meet the Public Policy Team
