My Alzheimer's Journey
Part 40 - Change of Business Plans
In late September (Part 10), I posted a LinkedIn article that I had recently published. The article shared the restructuring plans for our business. Like many things in life, those plans have changed.
The manager we hired was not a good fit for our business. His skills and experience were good; but, as time went on, we realized that our visions were not in sync. In hindsight, we made a quick, poor hiring decision.
After a lot of soul-searching, Linda and I made the difficult decision to close the business. I am experiencing a progression of my Alzheimer’s disease - memory worsening, less clarity in thoughts and decision-making, and a lack of energy. Additionally, the business had suffered during the past year without my active involvement. Bottom line, it just made sense to lock the doors.
I am deeply appreciative of the many clients who supported us over the past four and a half years. I am proud of the work we did. Some of my favorite projects were the tree house in Greenville, South Carolina, the dock and boat house renovations at Lake Summit, North Carolina, and the many screen porches in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.
Now comes the difficult job of selling the tools, equipment, trailers, and vehicles. Fortunately, some good friends are taking the lead on this mammoth project.
Those who know me well, know that I am an entrepreneur through and through. If I am not busy planning, creating, and managing a business, I am rather miserable.
Starting in about a week, I will open an online store selling clothing, household items, and accessories emblazoned with the Greg’s Alzheimer’s Journey logo. The store will open with mugs, tee-shirts, hoodies, coasters, and my favorite - a throw blanket. How cool is that? A Linus blanket with a logo of me, my blanket, and Big Bit printed on it.
Ten percent of every purchase will be donated to the Duke University and the University of North Carolina Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Commonly known as Duke-UNC ADRC, brings together leading researchers in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. In addition to research and scientific studies, Duke-UNC ADRC offers education and support for patients and caregivers.
The balance of my new venture’s profit will support my treatment expenses. The cost of living in Chapel Hill is significantly more than in the Upstate of South Carolina.
Thank you are for your support of my blog. For the many friends and family who continue to support us in a myriad of ways, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.