Volunteer | 5 October 2015 |

Carla

For the third year, my family and I participated in the Sacramento Walk to End Alzheimer's in downtown Sacramento. This is a cause near to us all after losing my maternal grandmother to Alzheimer's and dementia in 2013.

Before being personally touched by Alzheimer's, I thought, like most people, that it was simply a matter of becoming forgetful as you got older. But Alzheimer's is much more than simply forgetting where you left your keys or the name of your third grade teacher.What I have learned is that Alzheimer's is a degenerative disease that impacts not only memory, but the brain's ability to function. Sufferers often lose the ability to perform even the most basic tasks like brushing their hair, feeding themselves, and even talking and walking.

Having watched my grandmother slowly fade away, and the impact that this disease has not only on those diagnosed, but also with caretakers, I am passionate about finding a cure. Participating in the walk allows my family the chance to remember and honor my grandmother by supporting an organization that works to eradicate the disease that we watched her suffer through. I hope that in some small way, I can make a difference so that one day, I will know for certain that my daughter will not be impacted by the same disease that prevented her from meeting her great grandmother.

The Organization

Walk to End Alzheimer's

The Alzheimer's Association works to raise awareness about Alzheimer's care and support and to raise funds to support research for a cure. Alzheimer's Association also provides support and resources for those with the disease and their families.