I walk to honor my father’s memory and my mother’s steadfast love and devotion as his caregiver over a ten-year journey. This couple worked hard and saved for retirement but the travel and relaxation were not as anticipated. An Alzheimer’s diagnosis stole those precious years. This long battle day by day took its toll on my mother until we convinced her that her health was just as important and placed my dad in memory care during the last two years. His death was bittersweet and I do miss him. Even towards the end, his gentle personality showed through the disease.
I walk because I want to see a cure in my lifetime. I want my children and the next generation to be free from Alzheimer’s disease. The health of our nation will be dramatically improved. To make progress, it must be a team effort. Therefore walking with my team and my community is important to the cause and helps to provide hope for the future.
Faith Belote
Alzheimer's Association Southeastern Virginia Chapter 