We at the Alzheimer’s Association wish to extend our deepest appreciation and recognition to all caregivers who tirelessly support and care for loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. This year, we are particularly honored to spotlight Mary Fus, a remarkable individual whose dedication and commitment to our cause have made an indelible impact.
Mary Fus is not just a participant in the Chicago Walk to End Alzheimer’s; she is a beacon of hope and resilience in our community. As a repeat Elite Grand Champion and Chair of the Mission Committee, Mary has led her team and demonstrated unwavering dedication, raising over $355,000 and personally raising over $87,000 for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research.
Reflecting on her journey as a caregiver for her mother, who battles Alzheimer’s disease, Mary shares, “It takes more patience than you can imagine, but it is also an honor to give back to her and care for her when she needs it the most.” Mary’s profound commitment to her mother’s well-being exemplifies the selflessness and compassion inherent in the caregiving journey.
With each step she takes in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Mary honors her mother’s legacy while advocating for a future free from the grips of this devastating disease. “Our roles are reversed now,” Mary reflects "I take care of her like she took care of me growing up." Her unwavering determination to confront Alzheimer’s head-on is a testament to the enduring bond between mother and child.
As we commemorated Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month this past May, the Alzheimer’s Association proudly recognizes our AAPI partners who play a pivotal role in advancing our mission. These dedicated organizations, including Chinese American Service League (CASL) the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, Philippine Nurses Association of America, Inc., and Asian and Pacific Islander American Health Forum, have been instrumental in raising awareness and expanding our outreach within AAPI communities.
With over 6 million individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease nationwide, and 233,000 in Illinois alone, the AAPI community faces a growing public health crisis. As the older adult population within the AAPI community continues to rise, the need for early diagnosis, risk reduction, and quality care becomes increasingly urgent.
Dr. Carl V. Hill, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at the Alzheimer’s Association, emphasizes the importance of equitable access to resources and support, stating, “We believe that all communities should have a fair and just opportunity for early diagnosis and access to risk reduction and quality care.” The collaborative efforts of our AAPI partners are integral to achieving this vision, ensuring that individuals, families, and communities affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias receive the support and assistance they deserve.
As we celebrate and honor the resilience of caregivers like Mary Fus and recognize our AAPI community, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a world without Alzheimer’s—a world where every caregiver can find solace and support in their journey of love and caregiving.
Across the nation, the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's® is full of flowers, each carried by someone committed to ending this disease. Because like flowers, our participants don't stop when something's in their way. They keep raising funds and awareness for a breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Register today and be the first to know about Walk in your area by clicking here.
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