My wife Cate first noticed symptoms of memory loss in 2019, when it started to affect the quality of her work. We were fortunate to be accepted into a trial for an experimental treatment developed by Eli Lilly. Cate was able to maintain a normal life with complete independence throughout the course of the drug trial, which ended in the spring of 2024. However, there is not yet a cure for Alzheimer's, and Cate knew that she was on borrowed time. Cate's core identity was anchored on her intelligence and fierce independence. She was terrified, and depressed, and furious that she was losing both her identity and her agency… and there was nothing she could do to change the trajectory of her decline.
Then, in the fall of 2024, Cate began to have visual and auditory hallucinations. She had an episode when she woke up in the middle of the night, and didn't recognize me or her home. The next few hours were traumatic. Later, when she recovered, she felt embarrassed and humiliated by the experience. Cate resolved that she would not allow herself to lose further control of her life. With her final act of independence, Cate made a choice to stop eating and drinking, and demanded that I take her to a Hospice facility.
Alzheimer's is cruel. The victims know what's happening to them, and know how it will end. What happened to Cate was horrible. Many people are suffering through this same decline every day. In a better world, nobody should have to endure the indignities of Alzheimer’s. And at this writing, there is no cure.
By taking this step, I'm raising funds to support the critical work of the Alzheimer's Association: providing care and support for families, advancing promising research and offering a lifeline through their free 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900). Every dollar raised helps ensure that no one faces Alzheimer's alone.
I'd be so grateful if you would make a memorial gift in Cate's name. It would mean a lot to me and those facing this cruel disease.
