Hello Friends, Family, and Community,

My name is Sarah Jane (SJ), and as many of you may already know, I am a daughter of my dad who is living with younger-onset Alzheimer's. He was diagnosed in April 2018, when I was 17 and months away from graduating high school. I could go on and on about the unique struggles and grief that my family and I have encountered from this disease, slowly robbing my dad of his life -- but I'm here now to tell you the good that's coming from my journey.

Recently, I have been pouring my heart into Lorenzo's House, a global, virtual organization designed to empower the sons, daughters, children and families affected by younger-onset dementia of any form. Within Lorenzo's House, I am also involved in NextGen, a global advocacy movement of young people whose parents or loved ones are living with younger-onset dementia, as well as committed and passionate allies. Together, we’re changing the narrative around dementia — breaking silence, ending stigma, and creating a world that truly understands what it means to care for someone with brain change.

I have been invited to attend the inaugural NextGen Roundtable in Lyon, France, in April 2026, hosted by Lorenzo’s House in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) Conference. The roundtable will bring together over 50 young dementia advocates from around the world to elevate our voices, share our stories, and inspire global action for dementia justice.

As a NextGen member at ADI, I’ll take part in panel discussions, community art projects, and city-wide awareness events — all focused on shining light on the experience of families of younger-onset dementia. NextGen members will also be among the youngest voices at this conference, standing apart from researchers and other organizations who have historically only discussed Alzheimer's and other dementias as a health issue in older populations. Sharing the lived difficult experiences of younger families grappling with this disease is extremely important because with consistent representation, there will be more support for families in the future.

Your contribution will directly support my participation in this incredible event, including:

The total cost is $2,500 USD, which includes all travel and program expenses. Every contribution helps make this journey possible and ensures that the voices of young caregivers are heard on the world stage.

Your support means so much — you’re not just funding a trip, you’re helping amplify a movement of hope, empathy, and change.

How You Can Help:

Thank you so much for believing in this mission — and for standing with allies and families of younger-onset dementia, as we build a future where dementia is met with understanding, not silence.

With gratitude and light,

Sarah Jane (SJ)

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