Alzheimer’s disease is an issue that deeply affects those touched by it. The condition causes progressive mental and physical decline in people of all backgrounds, and it’s difficult for patients’ families and caregivers to live with as well. It’s also an issue the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Missouri is dedicated to solving through education, advocacy, research and support for families. The local association is part of a national organization that is the world’s largest private funder of Alzheimer’s research.
Yvette Burke understands the devastating impact of Alzheimer’s. Around 15 years ago, her mother was diagnosed in the early stages of the disease. Burke noticed atypical behavior when her mother visited to watch her children. “She was repeating questions, forgetting where she had put things and had anxiety about being left alone with the kids,” she recalls. “It was completely out of character. She was a strong woman who raised five children and handled everything on her own. We scheduled an appointment with a neurologist for a cognitive test.”
Following her mother’s dementia diagnosis, Burke turned to the Alzheimer’s Association for help. “The organization offers so much in terms of support for caregivers, family and friends,” Burke notes. “The help is unparalleled. Nobody should face Alzheimer’s alone.” The nonprofit’s array of important services includes a 24-hour helpline (800.272.3900) to answer questions and provide assistance whenever needed. It offers in-person and virtual support groups for both Alzheimer’s patients and caregivers, provides educational programs to local businesses and community partners, and works with families in care consultations, including guidance on how to approach a loved one they suspect may have the disease.
Along with support and resources, Burke’s family also benefited from the nonprofit’s dedication to advancing Alzheimer’s treatment and research. “Initially, my mother was on only one medication for her early diagnosis,” she notes. “Thanks to the Alzheimer’s Association, I learned that we could combine treatments, including a medication that was new to the market. In early conversations with medical professionals, I was told she had three to five years to live. She lived for 15. The Alzheimer’s Association gave us 10 more years with my mom.”
Burke has channeled her gratitude toward the nonprofit into fundraising efforts. A long-time employee of Enterprise Mobility, she’s found support from both her employer and coworkers. “This organization has supported me in every endeavor, professional or personal, and all of my teammates have been fantastic,” she notes. “When I was promoted to the St. Louis office in 2015, I was invited to get involved in local fundraising for the Alzheimer’s Association by my colleague Mary Mahoney. We’ve been able to engage not only our coworkers in St. Louis, but Enterprise employees around the world.”
On Oct. 26, St. Louisans will have the opportunity to lace up their tennis shoes and join the fight against dementia. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be held at Chesterfield Amphitheater, and the Alzheimer’s Association will be raising money through Dec. 31. Burke will be participating as a member of Enterprise’s Angels for Alzheimer’s team. “The walk and the funds raised contribute to so many amazing things, including research and caregiver support,” she says. “It’s an exciting way for the community to come together and move toward finding a cure.”
The Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Missouri provides care and support for those affected by the disease and other forms of dementia. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is Oct. 26 at Chesterfield Amphitheater. Pictured on the cover, clockwise from top: Cheri Schultz, Tracy Darrington, Megan Lynch. For more information, call 314.432.3422 or visit alz.org/stlwalk.
Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo by Tim Parker Photography
Pictured at top: Yvette Burke with her mother
Photo courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Missouri
