I don’t have any signs of Alzheimer’s but have watched dear friends slowly sink into a different place because of the disease. I worry that may be me, one day. My greatest worry is that my kids would have to see me , and that it might poison, not just their “present” but some how rob them of happy, memories of their childhood, and that all their memories of me would be of the “Alzheimer’s me.”

Anonymous, Friend

Bethesda, MD

For a life that was enriched by travel, reading, and learning... it is incomprehensible that my special friend is absent from her loving family and friends. She is missed. I hope her photobooks bring her joy and smiles.

Donna D., A caring friend who has cherished memories

Port St. Lucie, FL

This is a wonderful way to share one's feelings and be supportive of one another. Thank you!

Anonymous, Family member

South Portland, ME

Friends dealing with family members often express frustration with how simple things in life become so much more difficult. As a researcher, I am also frustrated with how really promising new approaches constantly hit roadblocks.

Anne Messer, Friend, as well as a neurological disease researcher

Albany, NY

Having watched my family care for my grandfather, and later an aunt that helped raise me, frustration (and sadness) are the lingering feelings. Watching everyone trying to come up with solutions when there weren't any, was such a helpless state to be in. I've been exposed to it more recently as an adult when helping with a non-family member, and it actually hit me much harder, as the enormity of the task (of caring for another) became more real and overwhelming.

Pete, Family member (both grandfather and aunt passed away years ago)

Jupiter, FL

Anonymous, Other

Bethesda, MD

Seeing a friend who was an accomplished, published writer struggle as cognitive decline increases and she is more unable to manage.. I know her through our Buddhist meditation group, so the emphasis on the teachings of compassion particularly come to mind.

Anonymous, Friend

Falmouth, ME

It is so sad to watch an independent, vibrant person become dependent on others for basic needs. It is also upsetting to witness the loss of communication and ability to interact with me.

Anonymous, Family member

Philadelphia, PA

Alzheimer’s. Just the word makes me anxious these days. As I advance through my seventh decade on Earth, it’s become more common for friends, former colleagues or neighborhood acquaintances to share that they or a spouse have or are affected by Alzheimer’s. I used to have an irrational fear of dying from cancer. Then I got cancer, and beat it. I no longer worry about that. I do worry about Alzheimer’s -- for me, for my family. Even though I know ongoing research and new treatments offer hope to slow the progression, there is yet no cure. Am I irrational?

Anonymous, Friend

Takoma Park, MD

I work with people experiencing different forms of dementia. I see them losing abilities - memory, language, physical. .It can be so sad, but I try to support them and draw out any positive aspects and opportunities to help them enjoy their lives.

Anonymous, Professional treating people with Alzheimer’s

Bethesda, MD

That was the last word my sister said to me, after being at our family Christmas singalong. It had been many months since she'd been able to speak, but her enjoyment shone in her eyes and while leaving she did turn to me and say "fun." We can all be encouraged when fun is possible for those with Alzheimer's.

Anonymous, Family member

Bethesda, MD

Dr. Taryn Fortune, Professional treating people with Alzheimer’s

Silver Spring, MD

Anonymous, Friend

Bethesda, MD

Dementia changes the life and the relationships of the person suffering with the disease as well as their caregivers and family members.

Anonymous, Family member

Baltimore, MD

My older brother recently was diagnosed--he's in the early stages, in his mid-70s. I'm anticipating slowly losing him. I hope the sadness turns to acceptance. I also volunteer with hospice patients with dementia. I hope to show my brother the same tolerance I give my patients--sometimes that grace and patience is harder to give for family members who witness their loved-one's decline.

Anonymous, Family member, Volunteer helping people living with Alzheimer's

Silver Spring, MD

Alzheimer's is tragic for not only the patient, but all of the family and friends that support the patient. It is all encompassing and heartbreaking for those involved.

Lindy Paris, Family member

Marlborough, NH