Why I Walk for My Mom and for Change

Sunday 26th Oct

My mom, Esther Sanoja, was diagnosed with vascular dementia at just 60 years old. What should have been a time for early support and understanding turned into years of confusion and frustration. She didn’t qualify for any help or resources until she was 65 — five long years of waiting while the disease progressed and our family struggled to understand what was happening.

No one should ever have to wait for care, guidance, or support — especially with something as life-changing as dementia. The lack of early help made everything harder for her and for us. It was stressful, exhausting, and heartbreaking to watch someone you love lose pieces of themselves without having the resources to help.

I’m walking in her memory — to honor her strength and to raise awareness so that other families don’t have to go through the same pain. There should always be help available right away for those facing Alzheimer’s and dementia. Every step I take is for my mom and for the change that’s still needed.

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