March 21 is National Memory Day. Memories are an important part of our lives, and Alzheimer’s disease destroys the ability to retain your memory. The Alzheimer’s Foundation reports that almost 5.1 million Americans are effected by this horrible, degenerative disease. The Foundation also estimates that one to four family members are caregivers for each individual with the disease.
Unfortunately, I am all too familiar with this disease: my grandpa was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s about two years ago. When I first heard the news, I didn’t have much of a reaction because my grandpa still seemed so healthy and happy. When I left for college in the fall of 2014, I only saw him on family occasions such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Every time I saw him, his memory seemed to get a little bit worse. It started on Christmas when he started to make jokes that didn’t make sense; but he still seemed like his normal self. Months started to pass, and I would hear my mom on the phone talking about his condition. The full force of the disease hit me on Thanksgiving of 2015, when my grandpa didn’t remember who I was. My grandma would say to him, “Who’s this?” and he would just look at me and smile.
His condition started to get much worse, until he eventually needed around the clock care. About a month ago, my family moved him into a Alzheimer’s care unit through Middlesex Hospital. I visited him last Wednesday during spring break, and enjoyed spending many hours with my grandma and my cousin, reminiscing and visiting. It has been tough on my family, but it has shown me how important it is to make time for your loved ones. It really puts life into perspective; so cherish every precious minute.
There are different ways to show your support. The company Lokai supports the Alzheimer’s Foundation, and recently created a purple braclet in support of new treatments; in hope of one day finding a cure. Lokai donated $1.00 for every bracelet sold, with a minimum contribution of 300,000 to the Alzheimer’s Foundation.
UConn’s Alzheimer’s Association also works tirelessly to raise funds for research and care.
“We remember their love when they can no longer remember.” -Unknown