About Us

My story begins in 1991 with my Grandmother Mary Ann. Growing up on a farm north of Dyersville, my two sisters and I spent many nights at Grandma and Grandpa's house. One of my favorite memories is the long nights of playing UNO. As time went on, though, we noticed Grandma's card playing wasn't as sharp as it once was. She began misplacing items and calling people by the wrong names too. At first, we brushed it off as just old age setting in.

Then in 1998, while Grandma was doing some baking, she forgot she had food on the stove. Luckily, Grandpa had come home from the field to grab some lunch and found the house full of smoke. It was a short time later that she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. The doctors advised my Grandpa that it would be much better if they moved into town.

So, in 2000, they sold the family farm and moved to Dyersville to be closer to family and receive the necessary Alzheimer's association support in caring for Grandma. Two short years later, her needs became too much for my Grandpa to handle alone. Sadly, we had to make the tough decision to move her into the Cascade nursing home in 2002.

My sisters and I, along with our dad, visited Grandma as often as we could. Some days were good, and she still recognized us, but other days, we felt like strangers just stopping by to visit.

In June 2006, my Grandmother lost her battle with Alzheimer's at the age of 74. Even though it has been just over 12 years since her passing, I remember the good old days as if they were yesterday—sitting around their dining room table, playing cards, and enjoying her wonderful baked goods.

Having lots of experience running 5Ks and 10Ks, in 2012, I decided to combine my love for running with a purpose and started an Alzheimer’s fundraising event to raise money. I didn’t have to think twice about where the money should go; I knew my hard work would benefit the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of my Grandmother. In 2013, I began planning the First Annual Alzheimer's 5K. With the help of my family and friends, we raised $2,400. Two years ago, we added a 10K portion to the event and raised $7,500. This year marked our 6th year for the race, and we successfully added a kids fun run, attracting many new sponsors. 2018 was our greatest success yet, with over 300 participants and raising over $9,000.

What started as a small idea to use my love of running for a good cause has transformed into a significant community event. I couldn’t be happier with how it has grown. In just six short years, we have raised over $30,000 for the Alzheimer's Association. Continuing this event and raising more money will be my goal until a cure is found.