For my Mom, it started with dementia.  Then it progressed to Alzheimer's disease.  She lived with it for over 10 years.  For my family, it seemed much longer.  I'll never forget the day I had to my Dad that we could no longer take care of my Mom together and we needed to get her the safety and dignity she deserved.  It was the hardest day of my life.

The truth is, 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease and it kills more people than breast cancer and prostate disease combined. The disease is hitting younger people more and more, some as early as their late 30's or early 40's.

Here are a few more sobering facts and figures from the Alzheimer's Association web site:

  • Every 66 seconds, someone in the United States develops the disease.
  • 1 in 3 seniors die of Alzheimer's disease every year.
  • Family caregivers spend more than $5000 a year caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease.

More research money is needed to advance a cure for this sad disease that affects patience and their families at the same time.

One thing you could do to help is join the Alzheimer's Walk in Binghamton on Saturday April 23rd.  The 3 mile walk leaves from Otsiningo Park in Binghamton with registration beginning at 9am.  The local chapter's goal is to raise $71,050.00.  To sign up or volunteer for this important walk, click HERE.

You can also find out about walks happening in Ithaca September 18th, Oneonta September 17th and Elmira on October 1st.

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