Communications Coordinator for our chapter, for Memory Day at the Ohio Statehouse on May 9. This annual event combines volunteers from across the state in teaching legislators about the disease and the devastating toll it takes on families and caregivers financially and emotionally. This year one of our main areas of focus was to raise awareness of our demographics. Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, have become epidemic in Richland Co. and are the 4th leading cause of death. As a result, the families affected are in desperate need of support and funding. Throughout the day, lawmakers were able to meet with some of these families, caregivers and in some cases patients themselves, to hear their stories and see first hand the need for respite care support, and other aid. Thank you for all who took the time to help advocate and educate. 

In our photo from left to right: Rachel Johnson, Diana Johnson, from Liberty Nursing Center of Mansfield, State Rep. Darrell Kick, Cheryl Benway, a family member advocate, Cindy Jakubick and Tessa Clark, Alzheimer's Association staff members.