Each week we will be picking members to spotlight to tell their Alzheimer's story and why they are running in this year's New York City marathon. Check in each Wednesday, Friday and Sunday for new updates on who will be spotlighted and get to know your teammates...(each person is picked at random)
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| Erin and her father. |
My family has been deeply affected by Alzheimer's disease. My father was diagnosed with early onset of Alzheimer's in 2000;
he was 58. My dad was acting off before we decided maybe it was time to see
a doctor. He was prescribed Namenda and Aricept and while I believe
it helped in some aspects, it truly didn't. First it was his memory, short term, then
longer term. It was funny at times, but then became very sad and
frightening for everyone. My mother is losing her husband, and I am
losing my father. Together we are losing our best friend. He never got to
retire with my mother like he always wanted, and he won't give me away on my
wedding day. About 4 years ago, he slowly lost his ability to walk. His body
couldn't communicate with his mind, which then resulted in his inability to
feed himself. About 18 months ago he stopped speaking, and 6 months ago, he stopped opening his eyes. It's not the way anyone wants to remember their loved
ones or see them "live." For years I've participated in local
Alzheimer's Association charities because I believe this disease needs a cure.
I've always had a list of "things to
do." Some of them are sky diving and flying a helicopter which I
have recently done, and now it's time to run a marathon. I figure there are
three ways of participating in a NYC marathon and there was only one way to go - running for the Alzheimer's Association which will now be known as Athletes to End Alzheimer's. Joining this team not only helps me achieve my goals but also also helps me cope with
a personal struggle. So far, and as I'm writing this I've been running with
the team for 5 weeks, I already feel part of something I will deeply cherish.
The people I have met have the same, or similar, struggles and they still put
one foot in front of the other. The team provides me with support and a
much healthier (and active) lifestyle. This year I am running the 2013
NYC marathon for my father and family, and for my team's loved ones as well.
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