If you haven’t personally been affected by Alzheimer’s disease in your family, chances are you probably know someone who has.
More than 6 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States—and more than 11 million family members and friends are providing unpaid care. Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, close family friends—the disease is one that can strike anyone at unexpected times in life.
Several of us within Off the Grid have been close to someone who suffered and ultimately passed away from the disease.
Lex Scala lost her Uncle Red, a retired coast guard and sailor who never met a stranger and was always the life of the party. While she lived far away during his decline, she witnessed the struggle and suffering her aunt, Red’s wife, faced as a caretaker once the disease fully took over.
Marissa Peters witnessed the decline of her best friend’s dad, Bill Martin, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s in his mid-50’s. Bill was like a second father to Marissa, who said the hardest part of it all was grieving the loss of someone you love so much while they’re still alive.
You can read more about Lex and Marissa’s story on our Team Page.
Here’s how you can join our efforts.
This year, Off the Grid is partnering with the Walk to End Alzheimer’s by hosting a couple of food trucks on the day of the walk, as well as forming a team to raise funds, awareness and walk together.
If you’d like to join us in our mission, we’re raising money through our team page here. You can also join us by walking in person on Nov. 6th from Pier 27 on the Embarcadero.
If you have a story to tell or would like to honor someone you’ve lost to Alzheimer’s on our page, please get in touch here.
By participating in Walk to End Alzheimer’s, you’re helping families access the critical care and support they need, while advancing global research. The organization is committed to continuing the search for methods of treatment, prevention and, ultimately, a cure.
Quick Links:
Walk to end Alzheimer’s November 6th event details.
