My mom was a successful businesswoman. After her retirement, mom pursued her American Dream and started Anna’s Bakery in her co-op and worked there for the next 12 years. However, one day mom burned three cakes and couldn’t explain what had happened to her customers. Shortly thereafter, mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
My sister and I started attending support groups to learn more about this disease which was previously referred to as “senility”. My mother passed away in 2008 at the age of 94 while another family member passed away in 2013 from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
I remain an active advocate for those dealing with this disease. I attend community health fairs and speak to individuals about Alzheimer’s disease and the support offered by the Alzheimer’s Association. I also participate in the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s and raise funds to further support the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Alzheimer's Association Southeastern Virginia Chapter 
Thank you, Shirley. We need more and more folks to tell their stories and let people know that the Alzheimer’s Association provides help and hope!