Decades of Dedication: 26 Years of Walking to End Alzheimer’s

“Alzheimer’s is not fair to the people who get it. It is not fair to the family. However, life is never fair. Alzheimer’s does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone.”  – Kathy Konek Decades of Dedication Fighting for a Cure Kathy Konek has been involved with the Walk to End Alzheimer’s for an outstanding 26 years. She first became involved in the walk in the … Continue reading Decades of Dedication: 26 Years of Walking to End Alzheimer’s

I Will Always Remember You: Why I Walk

By Norma A Salgado, Walk to End Alzheimer’s®participant (English version below) Decidí caminar en 2020 después de que mi madre falleciera de la enfermedad de Alzheimer, me sorprendió ver cómo la información sobre este problema de salud es muy baja, quiero que todos sepan que esto es grave y está matando personas, aún no hay una cura y esto es triste mas cuando alguien cercano … Continue reading I Will Always Remember You: Why I Walk

WSU Researcher Adapts Online Program for ʻOhana Caregivers

Dr. Alexandra Jackson, PhD, RDN, CDCES, is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Institute for Research and Education to Advance Health (IREACH) at Washington State University. Dr. Jackson recently received funding from the Alzheimer’s Association for her research project, “Adaptation of an intervention for caregivers of Native Hawaiians with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.” Below, Dr. Jackson explains her research and her personal connection to … Continue reading WSU Researcher Adapts Online Program for ʻOhana Caregivers

Honoring My Dad, My Hero: The Longest Day

By Heather Shadko My name is Heather Shadko. I grew up in the Midwest, just outside of Chicago, but I’ve been a resident of Puyallup, Wash., for 24 years. I’m a mother, wife and active member of my community. I work as a contract specialist for King County’s Department of Natural Resources and Parks, combining my passion for the environment and our community with my … Continue reading Honoring My Dad, My Hero: The Longest Day

Stacy Bellew, owner of Coeur Cause Wines

A Sparkling Mother’s Day Weekend

By Stacy Bellew, Owner, Coeur Cause® Wines Diamond Partner for 2022 Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Washington State During Mother’s Day Weekend, our blossoming brand Coeur Cause® will be releasing its third wine benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. We’ve raised almost $50,000 to date with much more to go. You are all invited to celebrate this inspiring partnership and event at one of our upcoming release parties.  … Continue reading A Sparkling Mother’s Day Weekend

Don and Nancy enjoying a boat ride

My Journey in Honoring Nancy: The Longest Day

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

Glenn kissing Pam on the cheeck at Christmas

Things I Miss: Making Every Minute Count

By Glenn Jacobs, Puyallup, Wash. Hi there, my name is Glenn. It has been three-and-half years since my wife, Pam passed away from Alzheimer’s. We were married in 1969, so it was a long time that we had been married. We first learned about her diagnosis only three years prior to her death, so that wasn’t a very long time at all. It was a … Continue reading Things I Miss: Making Every Minute Count

Older adult holding a photo of themselves when they were younger

Turning Back the Clock: The Basics of Alzheimer’s Progression

By: Beth Hutchason, MN, ARNP Did you know that short-term memory lasts less than 30 seconds and can only hold about seven items? On the other hand, long-term memory can last for days to years. Some long-term memories are conscious (specific knowledge and events), and some are unconscious (knowing how to do things like tying your shoes). As a palliative care nurse practitioner, I met … Continue reading Turning Back the Clock: The Basics of Alzheimer’s Progression