Join thousands of Alzheimer’s advocates who are making a difference!
Did you know that women are doubly affected by Alzheimer’s disease? They outnumber men living with the disease and more often than not shoulder the responsibility of caring for a family member with it.
You know these women. They are the special women in your life – mothers, wives, sisters, grandmothers, and friends.
That’s why this January during Alzheimer Awareness Month, the Alzheimer Society is joining our colleagues across the country to launch a nationwide campaign to get Canadians talking about Alzheimer’s disease. We want women to take action, be Alzheimer’s savvy, know the warning signs and take steps to reduce their risk – not only for themselves but for those they care about. – Alzheimer Society of Canada
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a fatal, progressive and degenerative disease that destroys brain cells. It is the most common form of dementia accounting for 64 per cent of all dementias in Canada.
Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging.
Symptoms include having difficulty remembering things, making decisions and performing everyday activities. These changes can affect the way a person feels and acts. There is currently no way to stop the disease, but research is improving the way we provide care and will continue to search for a cure.
Here at Little Voice, we are huge supporters behind Alzheimer’s research.
Author Amanda’s grandmother, Teresina Bernardo, has been living with Alzheimer’s for many years. She is currently living with the most severe and final stages of this disease, losing not only her memories, but her recollection of the most basic functions of life.
I knew that in creating Little Voice I also wanted to give back. Little Voice reminds us not to forget our inner voice, the voice that makes us unique, confident and ambitious. But sadly, when I thought of my own inner voice, I couldn’t help thinking that I could one day forget it. Having lived with Alzheimer’s in my own family, I can honestly say at this point in my life that I grew up fearing a similar fate. Most kids are scared of spiders or heights; but no, not me. A lot of people don’t realize how destructive this disease is, not just for the individual diagnosed but for the family as well. To look someone you love in the eye and see that they’ve forgotten you completely is truly heart wrenching. I wanted to be an advocate for Alzheimer’s disease because I wanted, just as I do in my book, for people not to forget who they are. Though I realize with this disease it can’t be helped, I do hope that with enough awareness, funding and support, we can change that!
– Amanda Bernardo, Author
With the Little Voice Forget Me Not Project, a portion of each book sale is donated to support the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
In addition, we are also taking part in this month’s 2015 Walk for Memories in support of the Alzheimer Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County. This walk helps to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and education. Held annually in more than 65 communities across Ontario, this inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to help support people living with dementia.
Join Little Voice and author Amanda Bernardo as they walk on January 25 to support this great cause or …