May 2023 Alzheimer’s News

Myra Garcia was diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s in 2020 at age 62. Her diagnosis forced her into early retirement from a job she loved, but has also provided new opportunities. She volunteers at a senior memory care center, sings in three choirs, and remains physically and socially active by practicing yoga, biking, golfing, and taking a French class with friends. She also enrolled in a clinical trial that is evaluating the safety and efficacy of a potential Alzheimer’s treatment, donanemab, for individuals living with pre-symptomatic Alzheimer’s Disease. She also discovered the Early-Stage Advisory Group (ESAG) which has helped bring the voices of individuals living with dementia to the national forefront. Myra hopes that by sharing her story she will encourage others to advocate for themselves in seeking
and receiving an accurate diagnosis.

You can learn more by going to www. alz.org/help-support/resources or the Alzheimer’s Helpline which is accessible 24/7 via 800-272-3900 and staffed by master’s level clinicians to assist with crisis situations, decision making, and disease information. You can find virtual dementia caregiver resources online at alz.org/covid19help. Tools and support are also available in Spanish.
Want to learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association and what they do here in St. Louis? Visit alz.org and/or contact PUCC’s Faith Outreach Ambassador with the Alzheimer’s Association, Joyce Ruiz at joyceruiz7@gmail.com