Ten years ago, Bobby and Sandy Marshall decided to undergo neurological testing. Sandy’s father had passed away from dementia, and the couple wanted to be proactive and vigilant. They received sobering news following the test. Bobby, at only age 55, was given the diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s disease. A high school teacher, he had to retire early, leaving him reeling from the double blow of the disease and a loss of purpose. “I was lost that first year,” he notes. Hope was on the horizon, however, thanks to the Alzheimer’s Association. The nonprofit is dedicated to tackling Alzheimer’s and other dementias through education, advocacy, research and services for people living with the disease.
Sandy reached out to the Alzheimer’s Association for resources following Bobby’s diagnosis. While the couple were living in Florida at the time, the local chapter helped transition his care when they relocated to Missouri to be closer to their grandchildren. Most importantly, the association has helped the Marshalls find a sense of purpose by sharing their story and advocating for the importance of early testing. “When I was diagnosed, there was little help for treating the symptoms,” Bobby notes. “In 10 short years, there have been multiple treatments approved to slow the course of the disease as well as new ways to test for it. We’re on the precipice of finding a cure in my lifetime.”
The Alzheimer’s Association offers an array of important services to families dealing with the disease, including a 24-hour helpline (800.272.3900) to answer questions and provide assistance. “We are the leaders when it comes to resources as well as investing into research that advances treatment,” says Kelly Quinn, vice president of development for the Greater Missouri chapter. “Our goal is to be proactive. We offer support and services before patients and families need them, not just when.” The nonprofit offers in-person and virtual support groups for Alzheimer’s patients and their 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.
To make these services possible, the Alzheimer’s Association relies on community support. One of the nonprofit’s largest annual fundraisers is its Beacon of Hope Gala. This year’s event is April 26 at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. “The gala also helps us make a significant investment into dementia research, including work being done locally and in Missouri,” Quinn notes. “This year, we are honoring Dr. David Holtzman, director of the Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Washington University School of Medicine. The evening truly represents the power of hope we have as a community for the future.”
The Marshalls also will be attending the gala. For Sandy, it’s a time to reflect on the support she and Bobby have received in their journey with the disease. “Our students have kept up with us—they attended walks, held car washes, and during COVID, even though Bobby was retired, formed a parade through our neighborhood, showing their high school and college diplomas,” she recalls. “Thanks to the Alzheimer’s Association, Bobby continues to have purpose and focus. And because of that, I have Bobby.”
The Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Missouri provides care and support for those affected by the disease and other forms of dementia. Its Beacon of Hope Gala is April 26 at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. Pictured on the cover: Local board members Allen Serfas, Emily Pitts, Jeff Wist, Maureen Bryan, Jason Bean, John Beuerlein, Michael Donnelly. For more information, visit alz.org/greatermissouri or contact Kelly Quinn at klquinn@alz.org.
Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo by Tim Parker Photography
Pictured at the top: Bobby and Sandy Marshall at the 2025 Alzheimer’s Association Community Leaders Summit with former student Cedric Blatch (center)
Photo courtesy of Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Missouri
