Labor Day has come and gone, and we’ll soon be thinking about the holidays. This month, though, is World Alzheimer’s Month, and it’s a great time to think about that ONE THING you can do to make a difference!! You don’t have to donate thousands of dollars or invest hundreds of hours to make an impact.

Here are six things you can do right now!

Register for the A List 1000. Click here to read more, share with others who may be interested, and join today to honor your loved one and mark World Alzheimer’s Month. I joined to honor my mom, Marilyn, and it makes me feel good to know the A List will bring voice and purpose to our story. I need to know our experience wasn’t in vain. 

Leave a comment on the USPS site urging issuance of an Alzheimer’s fundraising stamp.  Take a few minutes and to leave a comment for the Postmaster General encouraging her to approve an Alzheimer’s fundraising stamp. The Breast Cancer semipostal stamp has raised over $81 million since its inception and we can do the same for Alzheimer’s disease! Click here to visit the site. 

Join a support group.  I didn’t join a support group until after my mom had died, and waiting was such a big mistake. I had no idea how much I could benefit from interacting with others who understood what I was going through. If you aren’t able to attend a local group, join an online group. I co-moderate the UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Online Support Group – it’s a safe, welcoming place where we share our experiences, seek support, and offer support to others. Although my mother has been gone for almost four years, I still find great comfort and validation in the group.

Write a letter to your representative. Our leaders have the power to increase spending on Alzheimer’s care and research. As voters, it’s up to us to let them know this issue is critical. Click here to find your senator and here to find your representative.

Share your story.  Your story matters and sharing it can inspire others and let them know they aren’t alone on this journey. Talk to others about your experience or click here or here for places to share your story online. Also, please consider joining the A List 1000.

Make a donation to your favorite Alzheimer’s charity. Two of my favorites are UsAgainstAlzheimer’s and the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund. A full 100% of your donation to these organizations goes directly to the mission. The founders and board of directors, respectively, cover all overhead.