This June, I’ve been invited back to Washington, D.C. for the 2026 Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM) Advocacy Forum—my second year advocating on Capitol Hill. This is more than a trip for me—it’s both my life and my work. I lost my dad to Lewy body dementia, and that experience is what led me to dedicate my career to supporting individuals living with dementia and the families walking alongside them. Every day, I’m in this work—creating programs, advocating for dignity, and helping families navigate a disease that can feel overwhelming and isolating. And I won’t be going alone. My service dog, Stella, will be right beside me—just like she is in my daily work and advocacy. Together, we represent not just support, but visibility—showing up for individuals and families who deserve to be seen, heard, and understood.

Last year, standing in those meetings and sharing my dad’s story—alongside the stories of so many families I serve—was powerful. It reinforced that advocacy isn’t just important… it’s necessary. So I’m going back. To advocate for better care, research, and real support for families. To push for policies that reflect what dementia truly looks like. To bring both personal and professional voices to the table. The funds raised will help cover travel to Washington, D.C., hotel accommodations, meals, and advocacy-related expenses so I can continue this important work.

If you feel called to support—whether through donating or sharing—it truly means so much. I’m not just going as an advocate. I’m going as a daughter, a professional, and a voice for so many. With Stella by my side—for my dad, and for every family still walking this journey.