The first Alzheimer's survivor is out there
I lace up my skates for this tournament each year for one very personal reason: Alzheimer's.
One of the hardest things to watch is someone you love slowly lose pieces of themselves. That’s what Alzheimer’s did to my mom, who passed away in 2019 at the age of 78, and my Bubbie, who passed away in 2005 at 91. I was living abroad during much of that time, and Bubbie passed away the day after my wedding. A bittersweet reminder of how closely joy and loss can live side by side.
If your family has experienced Alzheimer’s, you know there are no easy answers. Being a full-time caregiver is one of the most demanding, exhausting, and underappreciated jobs in the world. For those who care for a parent at home, I admire your strength and understand how physically and emotionally exhausting that role can be. And for those who aren’t able to do that, I understand the heavy emotions that come with placing someone you love in the care of others. Watching someone you love slowly fade away while still standing in front of you is like witnessing a masterpiece being erased by a toddler with a crayon. Its the kind of heartbreak that’s hard to describe. Heart-wrenching doesn’t even begin to describe it.
That’s why this tournament matters to me.
So if you’re reading this, I have two simple asks:
First, if you’re able, please consider making a donation to support Alzheimer’s research and care.
And second, call your parents. Spend time with them. Tell them you love them every chance you get.
Because one day there may come a moment when they can’t say it back, or remember who you are.
Carpe diem, people. Carpe freaking diem.