This, That, and the Other…

15 Wednesday May 2013

Posted by Ann Napoletan in A Place for Mom, Advocacy and Awareness, Alzheimers.net, Blogging, Caregivers, Events, Grieving, Helpful Resources, Life After Caregiving, Mom, Polls, Saying Goodbye

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I would love it if you would take just a second to click over to USAgainstAlzheimer’s and complete this super quick survey. In just 3 minutes, you’ll be helping to collect valuable data, and a $1 donation will be made to USAgainstAlzheimer’s for each survey completed! Tell your friends, too!

Next, I’d like to share information regarding an important upcoming event open to everyone. On May 22 (next week), at 2pm (ET), George Vradenburg, founder of USAgainstAlzheimer’s will host a conference call to discuss the top issues we face in the fight against ALZ. To sign up, simply click here –> Register for the May 22 call.

Last, but not least, remember to check out A Place For Mom‘s newest blog offering, the Alzheimer’s Resource Blog. My current article takes a look at the concept of the “long goodbye.” How does the ongoing grief felt throughout a loved one’s illness relate to the grief experienced with the final loss. The answer might surprise you…

Marilyn’s Mighty Memory Makers v5.0

03 Friday May 2013

Posted by Ann Napoletan in Advocacy and Awareness, ALZ Assn Central Ohio, Life After Caregiving, Mom, Support system, Walk to End ALZ

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The Central Ohio/Columbus Walk to End Alzheimer’s has a new date and a new venue!! We’re growing!! The event will be held on September 14, 2013, at Huntington Park.

In the past four years, Marilyn’s Mighty Memory Makers have raised a total of $9,760 to help fund Alzheimer’s research and programs. This year, we’d like to add $5,000 to that total.

We’re ready! Are you? Join the team and walk with us, and/or make a donation to help us reach our fundraising goal.

Let’s keep Marilyn’s memory alive and make her proud!

The Power of Love

28 Sunday Apr 2013

Posted by Ann Napoletan in Advocacy and Awareness, Behaviors, Caregivers, Communication, Expectations, Helpful Resources, Inspiration, Music and Art, Ruminations, Smiles, Tips

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One of the misconceptions that disturbs me more than any other is the idea that Alzheimer’s patients are “gone” or are nothing more than a shell. Absolutely not true, which is what makes it so heartbreaking to see so many of these sweet human beings left alone to wither away…

The person before you may not be the the same as the one you knew BA (before Alzheimer’s), but there are very strong parts of that person present. They may be buried a little deeper, and you might have to work at reaching them, but the payoff is grand. Those who choose to walk away because it’s “difficult” or “unpleasant” are the ones who are missing out on some of the most poignant beautiful moments in life.

The power of this video cannot be described in words, you must experience it for yourself. Everyone with a connection to this disease should watch it, take it to heart, and remember it forever. They need us. They need love and human connection just like everyone else on this planet…maybe more.