As National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness and National Family Caregivers month comes to a close, I would like to share our story with you.
My husband, Mark, became one of the more than 6 million Americans living with the disease, and I joined the ranks of the more than 11 million family and friends serving as caregivers. Our journey began five years ago when Mark started experiencing short-term memory loss. In 2019, he received a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment. In May, we received the devastating news that Mark, at the age of 60, had early-onset Alzheimer’s. This was not what we envisioned for our retirement years.
We are currently screening for a drug trial at Massachusetts General Hospital. I participated in and raised funds for the Greater Portland Alzheimer’s Association walk, held in September. The trial, along with the fundraising, was very empowering for both of us. We are not taking this lying down.
Thanks to the Alzheimer’s Association, I’ve been able to participate in a number of the webinars that are educating me and helping me to navigate and support Mark in our journey together.
Is there someone in your life with Alzheimer’s? Does the caregiver need a break? Can you run errands or help with a household chore? Please support a Maine caregiver-partner in any way you can.
Amy Haines
Shapleigh
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