This season is so beautiful, because we are surrounded by people lifting each other up. The greatest gift you can give is to ease the burden of another, to make another feel less alone on their journey. The great beauty of the human condition is our shared experience.
What we find when we give so selflessly, whether we help an elderly neighbor clear their driveway or donate our time, we begin to heal the tender places in our own heart.
Our work is surrounded by giving, people giving themselves completely to care for another, volunteers who offer a few hours each month to host support groups, to those who give their financial resources and many more.
I consider myself to be the luckiest girl on the planet, because we wake up each day - and our sole purpose is to serve others, to lighten the load of those carrying the heavy burden of Alzheimer's or dementia. Whether we are serving individuals with the disease and their caregivers, doctors and other professionals, or researchers who work tirelessly for prevention or a cure - simply put, you are not alone.
But we don't do it alone. You selflessly give to us to keep our work moving forward.
As I reflect over the last six months of my journey, there are so many who have eased my burden and lifted me up. From kind words and encouragement to our amazing Walk to End Alzheimer's volunteers and team captains and participants and many, many more.
You have been my greatest gift. Thank you.
No matter what holiday you are celebrating this time of year, make sure you stop and love somebody.
Wishing you warmth, peace and light,
Until 2014,
Laurel K.
lkirksey@alz.org
P.S. Looking for a really great last minute gift for the caregiver in your life? Check out this great holiday coupon book!!
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