As the summer season progresses and nears its end, I reflect on the fun times that summer brought when I was a child. There were moments filled with laughter while getting soaked with the water hose on hot July days, followed by relishing our favorite ice cream treats from the neighborhood ice cream truck. The days were often unbearably hot and long, but we found happiness and joy.
Reflecting on those moments also stirred another memory – the launching of the Alzheimer's For All website this past April. I shared my hope of educating, empowering, and equipping others on their Alzheimer's journey. As part of that mission, a monthly blog also supports these goals. Again, I feel happiness and joy.
Welcome to Salt Pebbles, a sanctuary for those walking the winding paths of Alzheimer's disease. Here, we share insights, stories, and resources to illuminate the journey, drawing from personal experiences and a commitment to spreading awareness and understanding.
Alzheimer's, with its complex challenges, may seem daunting, but through Salt Pebbles, we aim to dismantle the barriers of fear and stigma surrounding the disease. We believe in the power of conversation, the importance of dispelling myths, and the need to treat every individual with dignity and respect.
Why Salt Pebbles? Naming the blog wasn’t as easy. But looking through old photos reminded me of Momma’s nickname. Greg, my late brother, had a friend who often referred to Momma as “Ms. Rock.” I thought, how could I incorporate “Ms. Rock” into a name for the blog? Then it hit me! (No, not a rock.) It occurred to me that salt is formed from rock salt, a natural preservative that adds flavor. Moreover, a pebble is a smaller version of a rock that is solid and smooth. Like me and Momma. Salt Pebbles was perfect, a blog that pays homage to Momma and Greg, and offers readers a smooth flavor-rich calming message to help them navigate the world of Alzheimer’s disease. What’s more, we also find inspiration in the idea of salt—a preserver of flavor and a symbol of peace according to Mark 9:50 “Good salt is worthless if it loses its saltiness; it can’t season anything. So don’t lose your flavor! Live in peace with each other. (Living Bible). Just as salt retains its essence even in granular form, we too strive to maintain our purpose and bring a sense of tranquility to those embarking on this journey.
I am honored to share my story, and the stories of others to encourage individuals who are walking on this journey. You are not alone in this endeavor. Supported by a dedicated team and guided by faith, we embrace the role of caregiver and advocate, embodying the resilience of pebbles formed from the sturdy rock of family love and support.
At Salt Pebbles, you'll find a wealth of resources to guide you along the way:
Caregiving Tips and Strategies: Practical advice and tools to empower caregivers, ensuring they navigate their roles with compassion and resilience.
Personal Stories and Reflections: Intimate accounts from those directly impacted by Alzheimer's, offering support, understanding, and inspiration. Our journey is deeply rooted in family; my mother, a steadfast presence in our lives, was the rock from which we drew strength and stability.
Alzheimer's Awareness and Advocacy: Stay informed about the latest developments in Alzheimer's advocacy, from awareness campaigns to research initiatives driving positive change.
Book Reviews and Recommendations: Explore a curated selection of reading materials designed to deepen your understanding and provide comfort on this journey.
Join us as we embark on this voyage together. Whether you seek guidance, connection, or simply a source of comfort, Salt Pebbles is here to accompany you along the way.
As a pebble, a chip from “Ms. Rock,” I am walking in my purpose to spread awareness about Alzheimer’s disease to everyone I meet. Through these monthly blogs, I aim to remind readers that although Alzheimer’s is a difficult disease, consider three things:
1) Be open to conversations about Alzheimer’s.
2) Don’t be afraid of Alzheimer’s.
3) Use your heart when talking about Alzheimer’s disease or the results of a patient in their presence.
Alzheimer’s patients have feelings, and they are still able to function with the disease. The goal is to encourage and not offend them.
Just like belly chuckles and joy found amid a scorching summer, hope, joy, and moments of laughter can also be discovered in the journey of living through Alzheimer’s.
Join me on this journey as I continuously spread the message: Because every month is a great month for Alzheimer’s Awareness!
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