As mentioned, we are donating a portion of the proceeds of our Block Island print to the Alzheimer's Association. I thought of doing this a while ago; a special print that would always be the month of November in our calendar, (National Alzheimer's Awareness month) with a portion of the proceeds ($5-$15 depending on the size of the print) going to the Alzheimer's Association.
My dad traveled a lot when I was growing up. A lot = constantly. When I think of my dad back then I think of the navy blue garment bag hanging on the bedroom door. The places weren't all that exotic; San Diego, San Antoino, Sacramento... he did take a trip to Europe once. Regardless, he loved it and in turn we traveled a ton as a family (I have to use 2 hands to count how many times I've been to Disney World). One place he went that I have yet to go to was to Block Island, Rhode Island and that is why I picked it for the first print.
My dad was 49 when he was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. We kind of knew what to expect because my grandfather had died with Alzheimers when I was in high school (I know... having alz on both sides of the family... not such a good thing). My dad died 3 years ago from the Alz at the age of 54. Those five years were pretty horrible, but one great thing was that my dad stopped traveling. I started my business so I could have a super flexible schedule and help take care of him. We hung out A LOT and it was great, I loved it.
By having a yearly print dedicated to my dad and Alzheimer's I'm hoping to help raise awareness of the disease, especially the early-onset part. There are very limited social services for those families with early-onset alzheimer's and their troubles are different than those of eldery people. Children are generally in school and college, people are under the age limit or make too much money to qualify for government help, spouses need to work and care is so expensive... to learn more about early onset alzheimers click here and here are some great links:
- News Hour
- NPR
- Mayo Clinic
3 comments:
So touching, Jennifer. It's always inspiring to see how people are able to combine their passions with causes they believe in. Thanks for sharing!
Anne
Jennifer, I agree with Anne. My grandmother passed away from Alzheimer's about 7 years ago.. it was a very difficult time for my family, as it is for so many others. Cheers to you for being able to channel your personal experiences into your passion.
Best,
Suz
"3 Troopin' Travelers"
What a lovely way to remember and pay tribute to your father.
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