Together, we commemorate the life of
Stanley Dombkowski
By Brianna DeMorais
In Memory of My Grandpa: Running for a Future Without Alzheimer’s
After losing my loved one to Alzheimer’s, I knew I couldn’t just stand by. I wanted to honor their memory in a way that would make a real difference, which is why I created this tribute page.
My grandpa lived with Alzheimer’s disease, and watching its effects unfold throughout my childhood was heartbreaking. Over the years, I saw him slowly forget pieces of his life, eventually even struggling to remember my name and who I was. One of the hardest parts was witnessing someone I loved so deeply look at me with confusion, as the memories we once shared became harder for him to access.
In small ways, I tried to reach him through the disease playing songs from his younger years and showing clips of old TV shows he once enjoyed. Sometimes there would be brief moments of recognition, like a smile, a hum, or a familiar reaction that reminded us he was still there beneath the disease.
In his honor, I am running the Hartford Marathon this October while raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Association. Each mile I run is dedicated to my grandpa and to all families affected by this disease. My goal is to help support critical research, improve care, and move us closer to a future without Alzheimer’s.
The funds raised will support the Alzheimer’s Association’s work, including research, family support services, advocacy, and their 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
I would be truly grateful for any donation in my grandpa’s memory. Your support helps honor his life and brings hope to others facing Alzheimer’s.
A future without Alzheimer’s is possible. Let’s get there together.
Thank you for your kindness and support as I run in his memory. 💜🏃♀️
