Two Special People, One Meaningful Mission

Alzheimer’s is a cause that Ryan and I are both deeply passionate about. After watching my Grandpa live with this disease and now seeing Ryan’s mom, Denice, go through it as well, Alzheimer’s has become a cause that is especially close to our hearts. As a family, one of our goals is to become more involved with the Alzheimer’s Association through volunteering, raising awareness, and helping raise funds to support research and, ultimately, find a cure.

Do What You Love is an annual fundraising event benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association, and I’m honored to be volunteering on the committee for the Oregon chapter. I chose to make our event a walking event as a way to honor both Grandpa and Denice, who were avid walkers. Walking felt like a meaningful way to celebrate them while bringing people together for a cause that has touched both of our families so deeply.

Beyond their love of walking, Grandpa and Denice share so many wonderful qualities. They are both incredibly kind and giving, deeply rooted in their faith, and unwavering in their commitment to putting family above all else. They have also raised caring, generous children who reflect those same values. The similarities between them make this event even more meaningful to us, and we hope it serves as a special way to honor them both while making a difference for the many families affected by Alzheimer’s.