A couple on Tucsons Eastside wants to get rid of the stigma surrounding Alzheimers. They are encouraging people to watch out for early warning signs.
For Debi Hall, 2020 was a year full of doctors visits.
There seemed to be a lot more going on as far as forgetfulness and just being sort of out of sorts, her husband Mark Hall told KGUN 9. Very few days where she didnt cry.
She was diagnosed with Alzheimers that December at the age of 65.
She was devastated, said Mark. Being a nurse for 40 years, knowing what this meant She didnt want the stigma to go with it. Cause she knew what the stigma was.
But the couple continues to do things together; 2020 was also a year where her sewing skills were desperately needed.
We started making masks during the pandemic, said Mark. Then she couldnt sew that very well, so then we went to blankets
Tucson non-profit Mending Souls is a place for Mark and Debi to sew items for people with medical or financial challenges, and it became a group they could rely on.
You have a good time over at Mending Souls? And seeing Michelle and the girls right? Mark asked Debi.
Oh yeah! She responded.
And theyve been just absolutely wonderful with Deb, said Mark.
The support from friends and family has made the journey easier, even as communication has gotten
harder
since KGUN spoke with the halls two years ago.
I know that shes frustrated when I dont understand what she needs me to understand, Mark admitted.
That doesnt stop the Halls from talking, and talking about Alzheimers.
The stigmas starting to wear off a little bit, I think, said Mark.
And they urge people who are concerned to talk with their doctor.
Warning signs of Alzheimers include:
Memory loss that disrupts daily life Challenges in planning or solving problems Difficulty completing familiar tasks Confusion with time or place Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships New problems with words in speaking or writing Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps Decreased or poor judgment Withdrawal from work or social activities Changes in mood and personality
This Saturday morning is the Walk to End Alzheimers at Reid Park.
There are already more than 1,500 participants signed up, with a goal to raise more than $300,000.
November is Alzheimers Awareness Month.