Charities – I Don't Know All The Answers

Why Supporting Alzheimer’s Research Matters More Than Ever

Nikki Mastro — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 19:53:52 +0000

It is easy to feel discouraged these days. The world feels divided, and numerous urgent causes are vying for attention. Yet there is one fight that cannot wait, the fight to end Alzheimer’s and all other forms of dementia.

Anyone who has watched a loved one disappear behind this cruel disease knows the heartbreak it brings. Alzheimer’s does not just take memories; it steals the very essence of a person, their laughter, their curiosity, their independence, their stories. For families, it is a slow and painful kind of loss, one that leaves you grieving long before the final goodbye.

I have seen this up close. I have watched someone once vibrant and full of life fade away piece by piece, and I know I am not alone. Every year, more families face this same heartbreak. Alzheimer’s now affects over 6 million Americans, and that number is climbing rapidly as our population ages. Behind every statistic is a face, a family, a lifetime of love and memories worth fighting for.

That is why supporting Alzheimer’s research and funding is not just an act of charity; it is an act of love, of hope, and of shared humanity. We cannot allow this disease to steal another generation of memories. Every dollar donated, every step walked, every conversation shared brings us closer to better treatments, earlier diagnoses, and ultimately, a cure.

The world indeed feels heavy at the moment. Political arguments, economic concerns, and social divisions can make it difficult to believe that our actions have any impact. But this cause, this deeply human cause, reminds us that compassion is stronger than division. Alzheimer’s does not care about politics. It affects families of every belief, background, and circumstance. By standing together, we honor the people we have lost and protect those who are still with us.

I am asking for your help gently but urgently. Whether you give, walk, share, or talk about the importance of Alzheimer’s research, you become part of a powerful collective voice saying we will not give up.

Because love remembers, even when memory fades.

A Final Thought

If you are able, I hope you will consider donating to help fund Alzheimer’s research. Truly, no amount is too small. Every single contribution helps move us closer to a future where no family has to endure such a loss.

If you’re unsure where to donate, I have included a link to my Walk to End Alzheimer’s website below. All donations go directly to the Alzheimer’s Association.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for caring, for giving, and for helping to keep hope alive. Together, we can make a difference.

My Alzheimer’s website: http://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=18461&pg=personal&px=5531143

Thank you for reading this blog post. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them in the Comments section below.

All of my photographs and documents are copyrighted.

The main photo in this blog post is from the Alzheimer’s Association website.

No part of this website, including text, photographs, and documents, may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the copyright holder. All unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. If you choose to copy or share any information from my site, you must provide a link to the source. I appreciate your cooperation.

For further information concerning “I Don’t Know All The Answers.”

– Website and Blog: https://www.idontknowalltheanswers.com

– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nikki.L.Mastro/

– Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/i_dont_know_all_the_answers/

– LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-mastro-05455a3a/

– Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@idontknowalltheanswers1954

The Incredible Journey of the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation

Nikki Mastro — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 23:58:31 +0000

In my ongoing commitment to support causes that resonate deeply with me, I am thrilled to spotlight another noble organization—the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF). This incredible charity has joined the ranks of those I’ve previously championed, including the Alzheimer’s Association, Children of Grace with my two sponsored Ugandan daughters, and Adopted A Native Elder. Each organization holds a special place in my heart, and SDF is no exception. Their inspiring mission to transform rescued dogs into heroes ready to save lives in disaster situations is remarkable. I invite all my fellow dog lovers, animal welfare advocates, and loyal blog followers to join me in celebrating and supporting such commendable efforts. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for those in need.

Every dog has its day, especially those at the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF). This heartwarming and inspiring organization, nestled in Santa Paula, California, is where rescued dogs become heroes. Founded in 1996 by Wilma Melville, a grandmother and former physical education instructor, the SDF is on a mission to transform disaster response in America. Their work has significantly improved the efficiency and effectiveness of search and rescue operations, saving countless lives.

From Rescued to Rescuer

Imagine a dog, once abandoned or abused, standing as a beacon of hope amid chaos. That’s the magic of SDF. Each dog joining the program is not just another rescue but a prospective lifesaver. These canines, often high-energy and tenacious, undergo a remarkable transformation through rigorous training, channeling their boundless enthusiasm into essential life-saving skills. This process, filled with hope and optimism, is a testament to the resilience and potential of these dogs, witnessing their journey from rescued to rescuer.

A Legacy Built on Love

Wilma Melville’s story is a testament to the power of vision and determination. After witnessing the devastation of the Oklahoma City Bombing in 1995, she realized a pressing need for more trained canine search teams. Partnering with renowned trainer Pluis Davern, Wilma developed a pioneering training methodology for disaster search dogs. Her dream was clear—to ensure no one was left behind when disaster struck.

The Road to Readiness

Before a dog joins its firefighter handler, it undergoes eight to ten months of rigorous training. This includes learning to navigate through the rubble, detect human scent, and respond to various commands. The dogs are also trained to remain calm and focused in high-stress situations. This preparation ensures that these dogs can leap into action confidently and precisely when a disaster occurs. Thanks to SDF’s dedicated approach, the certification success rate has soared from 15% to an impressive 85%.

The Human-Canine Partnership

Firefighters and other first responders are the backbone of SDF’s approach. These brave individuals, trained to face the chaos and danger of disaster scenarios, find indispensable partners in their search dogs. Together, they form a team more significant than the sum of its parts, embodying trust, skill, and resilience.

Lifelong Commitment

SDF’s dedication doesn’t end at deployment. The foundation promises a lifetime of care for each canine hero. If a dog cannot complete the program or remain with its handler, SDF finds it a loving home, ensuring that once rescued, these dogs never face abandonment again. This dedication is truly inspiring and should motivate us all to support their cause, knowing that our support ensures these dogs are cared for throughout their lives.

No Cost, No Government Funding

Remarkably, the SDF operates without government funding. The cost to recruit, care for, train, and equip each dog-team partnership is $50,000, provided at no cost to fire departments. This feat is made possible by the generosity of supporters who share the foundation’s vision. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or spreading the word, the community plays a crucial and valued role in the success of the SDF’s mission. Your support is not just appreciated; it’s integral to their work and makes you a vital part of the SDF family.

How You Can Help

Feeling inspired by the incredible work of SDF? Here’s how you can make a difference:

Make a Donation: Whether one-time or monthly, your contributions support training and care for these courageous canines. Consider corporate matching programs or legacy giving to amplify your impact.
Volunteer Your Time: Join a community of like-minded animal lovers and become part of the SDF family.
Spread the Word: Share this article with friends and family, or follow SDF on social media to stay updated on their life-saving endeavors.

Heartwarming Stories

Imagine standing side-by-side with a team of courageous handlers and their canine partners, knowing you’ve contributed to their success. This is the essence of community at SDF. Each story, each rescue, and each wagging tail brings us closer together in our shared mission to save lives.

In conclusion, the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation is more than an organization—it’s a testament to the strength of human-animal bonds and the power of collective action. By supporting SDF, you’re not just helping to train dogs; you’re helping to save lives.

References:

National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF). https://www.searchdogfoundation.org/

Looking after military working dogs – Government Vets. https://vets.blog.gov.uk/2017/10/11/looking-after-military-working-dogs/

Thank you for reading this blog post. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them in the Comments section below.

All of my photographs and documents are Copyrighted.

The main photo included in this blog post is from the iStock.com library.

For further information concerning “I Don’t Know All The Answers.”

– Website and Blog: https://www.idontknowalltheanswers.com

– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nikki.L.Mastro/

– Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/i_dont_know_all_the_answers/

– Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-mastro-05455a3a/

– Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@idontknowalltheanswers1954

Alzheimer’s: A Journey of Hope and Determination

Nikki Mastro — Sun, 17 Mar 2024 22:40:32 +0000

I began working on My 2024 Alzheimer’s website this morning. After so many years of being an advocate for Alzheimer’s research and cure, it’s still a little disheartening that we still haven’t tackled this horrible disease! Many of us have been touched by Alzheimer’s in some way. Whether it’s a grandparent, parent, or friend, we’ve seen firsthand the toll this disease takes on both individuals and their loved ones. It can feel like an unstoppable force, leaving us helpless and defeated. But we must remember that we are not powerless. We can educate ourselves, support those affected, and push for advancements in research and treatment.

A Journey of Hope and Determination

Imagine waking up one day to find your memories fading; familiar faces no longer recognizable, and daily tasks becoming insurmountable hurdles. This is the reality for those facing Alzheimer’s—a formidable foe that chips away at the essence of identity. But what if we could change the narrative as a unified community of caregivers and advocates? What if our collective efforts could light the path toward knowledge, prevention, and a cure?

Understanding Alzheimer’s: More Than Just Memory Loss

Alzheimer’s disease is a complex and progressive neurodegenerative disorder; it’s the thief that steals memories, disrupts cognitive function, and ultimately diminishes the ability to perform the simplest tasks. But what is Alzheimer’s, exactly? It’s not just a part of aging—it’s a battle against tangled webs of proteins and disrupted communication within the brain.

The symptoms are cruel and often subtle at first—misplaced keys, forgotten appointments. Yet they spiral into a chasm of confusion, language struggles, and the heartache of not recognizing loved ones. It’s a condition that has touched many, including Jim and I, who have walked yearly for over a decade in solidarity with those affected. We walk because each step is a promise—a vow to persevere for loved ones like Aunt Lorraine and countless others enveloped in this struggle.

Diagnosis: Piercing Through the Fog

Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease is an intricate process involving memory assessments, imaging tests, and evaluation of family history. It is not simply reading data; it’s about interpreting the story of someone’s life that seems to be slowly unwinding. Yet, in understanding, there is power—power for families to prepare and power for researchers to pinpoint vital clues in the quest for solutions.

The Latest Breakthroughs: Rays of Hope in the Darkness

Now, onto the beacon of hope that shines in Alzheimer’s research. What are the latest findings? Recent studies examine everything from genetic risk factors to lifestyle implications. They seek answers in cellular health, inflammation, and even the role of sleep in Alzheimer’s prevention. Every discovery is a piece of the puzzle. We now understand that maintaining heart health, engaging in mental stimulation, and staying socially connected can build defensive walls against the onset of Alzheimer’s.

But the most promising frontier lies in targeted treatments. The research community is abuzz with potential breakthroughs that could interrupt the disease’s progress. Clinical trials for medications that could reduce amyloid plaques are in motion. There’s burgeoning interest in immunotherapy to harness the body’s defenses.

A Call to Arms: Your Role in Turning the Tide

Each of us holds a torch—a beacon that can light up the darkness surrounding Alzheimer’s. Whether through supporting research with fundraising walks, offering a hand to caretakers weathering the storm, or simply spreading awareness, our actions create ripples that can turn into waves of change.

Your voice can champion the cause, and your steps can join ours in a relentless march toward a cure. This is a call for hope and action, for as we’ve learned through our heartfelt commitment, progress—like a garden—must be tenderly nurtured and collectively sustained.

And so, I ask you—whether as a caregiver, a friend, or an ally—to join this relentless pursuit. Together, we can confront Alzheimer’s not with whispers of despair but with shouts of defiance and determination. Embark on this empowering odyssey with us, and together, we’ll build a future where Alzheimer’s is not an end but a challenge that was overcome through the strength of the human spirit.

Remember, every action counts. Each day, each moment, we forge ahead in a collective quest, not just for survival but for triumph. Join us, and together, we shall rise above Alzheimer’s—unyielding, hopeful, and undeterred.

References:

Alzheimer’s Association. https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2?df_id=51079&51079.donation=form1&mfc_pref=T&utm_source=google&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=giving_google&s_subsrc=giving_google&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw48-vBhBbEiwAzqrZVNzWAsDYL3gH4ywuDOIVq83s78nFWd82Jt3HEsQ1nroOOCPPtjem8RoCDmkQAvD_BwE

Our Company | Golden Biotechnology Corporation. https://www.goldenbiotech.com/en/alzheimers_disease.php

Special note: The main image for this blog post is from the Alzheimer’s website. The white flour symbolizes the first person to be cured of this terrible disease! Everyone hopes and prays that a cure will be found soon, and there will no longer be the need to display other colors of flowers!

Thank you for reading this blog post. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them in the Comments section below.

All of my photographs and documents are Copyrighted.

For further information concerning “I Don’t Know All The Answers.”

– Blog: https://www.idontknowalltheanswers.com

– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nikki.L.Mastro

– Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/i_dont_know_all_the_answers/

– Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-mastro-05455a3a/

– Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@idontknowalltheanswers1954

Let’s END Alzheimer’s Together!

Nikki Mastro — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 21:07:34 +0000

Saturday, October 28, 2023, is the annual East Bay Walk to END Alzheimer’s; the walk is a nationwide event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s disease. As someone personally affected by this devastating disease, I have seen first-hand the impact it can have on individuals and their families.

Many years ago, I formed our team, “For Aunt Lorraine,” in honor of my husband’s aunt, who battled Alzheimer’s. It was a small way for us to show our love and support while joining the fight against this illness.

But what exactly is Alzheimer’s? It is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys memory and thinking skills, eventually leading to the inability to carry out daily tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases.

Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s. This means that once a person is diagnosed, they will experience a decline in their cognitive abilities and ultimately lose their independence. It also emotionally affects caregivers and loved ones who witness this decline.

So, what can we do to prevent Alzheimer’s? While there is no guaranteed way to avoid it, research suggests a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk. This includes staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, engaging in mentally stimulating activities, and maintaining social connections.

But we cannot fight this disease alone. Events like the Walk to END Alzheimer’s are so important. By joining together as a community, we can raise funds for research and support programs and spread awareness about the disease.

Please join a walk, form your own, or donate. If you cannot physically participate, you can still make a difference by donating to the Alzheimer’s Association. Every step we take brings us one step closer to finding a cure. Every dollar counts in this fight. Together, we can make a difference and create a world without Alzheimer’s disease. Let’s unite to honor those impacted by this illness and show our support for the millions of individuals currently living with Alzheimer’s.

For further information on Alzheimer’s, the Walk to END Alzheimer’s, or to donate, please click on the link below to go to my personal page on the Alzheimer Association website..

https://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=16409&pg=personal&px=5531143

Thank you for reading this blog post, and if you have any questions or comments, please leave them in the Comments section below.

All of my photographs and documents are Copyrighted.

For further information concerning “I Don’t Know All The Answers.”

– Blog: https://www.idontknowalltheanswers.com

– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nikki.L.Mastro

– Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/i_dont_know_all_the_answers/

– Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-mastro-05455a3a/

– Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@idontknowalltheanswers1954

The Walk To END Alzheimer’s 2022

Nikki Mastro — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 19:52:20 +0000

2020 and 2021 were challenging and life-changing years for all of us. For the safety of all participants, the 2020 Walk to End Alzheimer’s was virtual. Then in 2021, both the physical and virtual walks resumed. Unfortunately, I was still concerned for our team members’ health. Vaccinations were beginning to become available for limited age groups, and only some family members would have been vaccinated, so I chose not to participate in the physical Walk.

This year’s goal was for our team, For Aunt Lorraine, to participate in the physical Walk again. Our motivation remains as strong as ever to raise funding for a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia!

Do you have a family member or friend like our aunt Lorraine?

“The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease.”

The Alzheimer’s Association

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States and is one of the most painful conditions a person can suffer from. It robs them of their memories, relationships, and life. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s yet, but we are getting closer every day to finding one. That is why supporting the noble charity, the Walk to END Alzheimer’s, is so important, and it is why the Team for Aunt Lorraine has participated in and supported the Walk to END Alzheimer’s for so many years. Your donation will support research into finding a cure for Alzheimer’s. Please consider donating!

Please click the link below if you want to donate to the Team for Aunt Lorraine. You can also go directly to the Alzheimer’s website and make your donation.

http://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=15424&pg=personal&px=5531143

Thank you for reading, and if you have any questions or comments, please leave them in the comments section below.

Adopt-A-Native-Elder

Nikki Mastro — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 03:18:35 +0000

The COVID pandemic had a devastating effect on poorer populations around the world. The virus has killed thousands and left many without essential services or income. In this blog post, I will take a closer look at what the pandemic did to the Navajo Nation and how we can help them recover.

The Navajo Nation occupies portions of northeastern Arizona, northwestern New Mexico, and southeastern Utah; at roughly 17,544,500 acres (71,000 km2; 27,413 sq mi), the Navajo Nation is the largest land area held by a Native American tribe in the U.S.

Navajo Nation – Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navajo_Nation

In 2020, COVID took a toll on the people of the Navajo Nation and particularly the elders. The resulting deaths were extremely high compared to the rest of the USA. Navajo people were already struggling with high levels of poverty and unemployment, and the pandemic worsened these problems.

I wanted to help. So I sponsored Lena, a Navajo Elder, through Adopt-A-Native-Elder (https://www.anelder.org/).

Navajo elders are revered and the keepers of the traditional ways and hold the key to preserving the Navajo culture and history. My Navajo elder, Lena, is a traditional Navajo and does not speak English. She is struggling with extreme poverty, and I am trying to provide food, clothing, and medical care. Lena is very proud, and I don’t want to humiliate or anger her in my desire to help. So it makes me happy if she laughs at something I say or do. Lena and I communicate through her daughter. I’ve sent pictures of the bears, other wildlife, and Teddy. I sent Lena a pink jacket which she loved. So here I am trying to help, but who is receiving the emotional treasures — me!

A Navajo proverb says, “respect the elders, and you will be blessed.” I am!

Adopt-A-Native-Elder is the third noble charity that I actively support. This charity is also dear to my heart because of my mother.

Adopt-A-Native-Elder

Mission Statement

“Adopt-A-Native-Elder serves to help reduce extreme poverty and hardship facing traditional Elders living on the Navajo Reservation. We are a trusted humanitarian organization focused on delivering food, medical supplies, firewood, and other forms of Elder support. Respecting the tradition and dignity of Navajo Elders, we create relationships to honor and serve the Elders.

We have served thousands of traditional Navajo Elders since the 1990s by giving as a gift of love… not a handout. Today, our efforts touch the lives of over 800 Elders.

What we do for the Elders is based on the principle of the Native American Giveaway. We give our best and give it freely with no expectation of return.

The Elders feel gratitude for these gifts, often expressing it through their shy smiles. Some give small gifts such as necklaces in return. Unfortunately, many are too poor to be able to make such a gift. Their gift is to touch our hands and hearts and offer their prayers. That is enough.”

Anelder – About Us. https://www.anelder.org/About-Us

This video, A lifeline for Native Americans struggling to survive, was shown on CNNHeroes in 2017.

Adopt-A-Native-Elder is my third noble charity.

If you would like to donate Adopt-A-Native-Elder, here is information directly from their website:

https://www.anelder.org/Foundation-and-Corporate-Giving

Making gifts to our Programs can be done in several ways. You can use the convenient shopping cart method on this website by visiting the donate now page (an additional donation of 3% is added to cover credit card processing costs). You may also call our office at 801-474-0535 to make your donation by credit card over the phone. If you prefer to mail a donation check our address is:
Adopt-A-Native-Elder
328 W Gregson Ave.
Salt Lake City, UT 84115

The Adopt-A-Native-Elder Program is a non-profit 501(c) corporation, and as such, all donations are tax deductible. The Program’s tax ID number is 87-0490211.

The Program’s donor list is never sold or made available to anyone else.

CHARITY NAVIGATOR RATING
Charity Navigator is a charity assessment organization that evaluates hundreds of thousands of charitable organizations in the United States. A.N.E. is proud once again to have achieved a four-star Charity Navigator score. The score is calculated from two sub-scores. Adopt-A-Native-Elder earned a 96.35 score in Finance and 96.00 in Accountability and Transparency, for an overall 96.17 out of 100.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the number of charities that are out there and need your support? I certainly did, and that is why I selected these three.

The Walk to END Alzheimer’s
The Children of Grace
Adopt-A-Native-Elder

I have a personal connection with each charity. We all want to help others, but sometimes it is hard to know how to make a difference. So my advice is to support what is close to your heart.

Thank you for listening.

Children of Grace

Nikki Mastro — Sun, 26 Jun 2022 00:53:45 +0000

The second noble charity that I am actively involved with and want to bring to your attention is the Children of Grace.

https://childrenofgrace.com/

A decade ago, I read an article about a young girl, Zahara, who recently graduated from the Athenian School in Danville, California. Zahara’s story and her family’s response to Uganda’s AIDS crisis were inspiring. As a result, I wanted to support this wonderful organization.

Children of Grace Mission Statement

“Children of Grace is a Christian organization providing hope to orphans and other vulnerable children affected by poverty and AIDS through education, healthcare, mentorship, and empowerment programs to enable a better future.”

“Uganda is a fairy-tale. You climb up a railway instead of a beanstalk, and at the end, there is a wonderful new world, wrote Sir Winston Churchill, who visited the country during its years under British rule and called it “the pearl of Africa.” Indeed, Uganda embraces many ecosystems, from the tall volcanic mountains of the eastern and western frontiers to the densely forested swamps of the Albert Nile River and the rainforests of the country’s central plateau. The land is richly fertile, and Ugandan coffee has become both a mainstay of the agricultural economy and a favorite of connoisseurs worldwide.”

Britannica

https://www.britannica.com/place/Uganda

The more I learned about the work of Children of Grace, the more I wanted to sponsor a child. I preferred to sponsor a little girl, and after scrolling through the photos of children needing sponsorship, I stopped at a picture of a sad little girl. Immediately I knew this was my little girl. Zam was my first Ugandan daughter. Zam had suffered so much in her life!

Several years later, I sought to sponsor another child. My second Ugandan daughter is Monica.

Both girls suffered unbelieve poverty and loss in their young lives. For a small monthly investment, I provided food, medical care, and a good education in the best schools in Uganda for both girls. I wanted to help make the world a better place for them. I wanted them to have more opportunities and the ability to break out of poverty through education. I hoped my small efforts would help build their self-confidence and help them feel in control of their lives. I believe that people who have a solid education have more opportunities in their lives, and they will help their families and societies break out of the cycle of poverty.

When the COVID pandemic took over the world, the schools in Uganda closed. They remained closed for two years. Children of Grace provided food, medical care, and hygiene products to over 2000+ distressed children and their families during that time. In addition, they initiated a homeschooling program for Children of Grace students.

I was so happy that I could provide school supplies and uniforms for my girls.

My dream for my Ugandan daughters is to see them go to college.

Note: These are not current photos of my beautiful, intelligent girls. They are still minors; I want to protect them.

Zam is now 18 years old, and Monica is 16 years old.

Many children still need sponsorship.

I’ve now shared two noble charities with which I am actively involved. I have more, which I will detail in my next blog.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s – East Bay Area

Nikki Mastro — Sat, 25 Jun 2022 14:02:33 +0000

I actively support three noble charities: The Walk to End Alzheimer’s, The Children of Grace, and Adopt-A-Native-Elder. I am going to discuss each charity individually.

The Walk To End Alzheimer’s

2022 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – East Bay Area

It is hard to believe that the last time our team participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s was in 2019. However, because of the pandemic, 2020 and 2021 were challenging and life-changing years for all of us. For the safety of all participants, the 2020 Walk to End Alzheimer’s was virtual. Then in 2021, both the physical and virtual walks resumed. Unfortunately, I was still concerned for my team members’ health, so I chose not to participate in the physical Walk.

This year’s goal is for our team, For Aunt Lorraine, to participate in the physical Walk again. Our motivation is as strong as ever to raise funding for a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia! Science has made positive progress in preventing and treating COVID, but throughout the past two years, Alzheimer’s has remained relentless and much remains to be done to advance the care, support, and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association®

“The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease. While there is no fee to register for Walk, all participants are encouraged to raise critical funds that allow the Alzheimer’s Association to provide 24/7 care and support and advance research toward methods of prevention, treatment, and, ultimately, a cure.”

Alzheimer’s Association https://act.alz.org/site/TR?sid=23932&type=fr_informational&pg=informational&fr_id=15424

I know that there are many critical issues and causes chipping away currently at everyone’s budget, but if you can, please consider donating to the Walk to END Alzheimer’s. Please consider helping to change lives. Also, please remember that no donation amount is too small. Every dollar you donate helps the Alzheimer’s Association® provide care and support to those facing Alzheimer’s and all other dementia and advance critical research.

So many of us have close family members and friends affected by this disease that I suggest you consider establishing your team. Perhaps honoring a loved one as our team does. The Alzheimer’s website will walk you through each step.

Click the link below to find a Walk To End Alzheimer’s near you.

https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=walk_about_alzheimers_association

If you would like to donate through my team, For Aunt Lorraine, the link is below.

My page: http://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=15424&pg=personal&px=5531143

Thank you for taking the time to read about the Walk To End Alzheimer’s, and for your support and help!

Nikki Mastro
For Aunt Lorraine, Team Captain