Those of us who have enjoyed women’s college basketball over the years know how special Pat Summitt is. As a coach, mentor, and someone who has always believed girls are capable of doing everything their male peers can do, Summitt has been an inspiration to millions. 
Mom always loved her.
Never was that more true than in the summer of 2011, when, at age 59, she announced she had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. She, along with her incredible son, Tyler, were prepared to fight. They intended to do everything they could to bring awareness to the disease that has affected so many families. There was no self pity… just determination to go on with life and make a difference as they entered this unexpected new chapter in their lives.
Sum It Up, Coach Summitt’s third book with Sally Jenkins, is the story of resilience; from coaching to motherhood, and now her latest challenge, ALZ, this woman is tough as nails, yet as kind and compassionate as they come. Upon its release, Summitt’s memoir took its spot on the NY Times Best Seller List and has remained there since.
The basketball legend and her son were recently interviewed for a piece on CBS, and clearly, they continue to enlighten, inspire, and fight. Click here and take a few minutes to watch.
Sorting Mom’s clothes today, deciding what to keep and what to donate… doing pretty fine. And then I picked up an article of clothing and found her glasses…
of a baby, transforming from sullen and essentially unresponsive to happy and animated, even talking a bit! At only 76 years old, she should be here to relish moments like today’s party… but damn this disease for stealing that opportunity from her – from all of us.
The Long and Winding Road... 