My Alzheimer's Journey
Part 97 - A Few Things On My Alzheimer's Mind
This post is going to be mixed bag of topics. I hope you find it interesting and meaningful. Like most people suffering from Alzheimer’s, I have good days and I have bad days.
Today was a good day.
I received my eleventh Lecanemab infusion this morning at Duke. The nurse taking care of me was awesome. Excellent care, very professional, and truly concerned about me.
While at Duke, I posted a photo on Reddit of me with the juice flowing into me. That post ignited an awesome conversation among a group of people who have loved ones (or themselves) impacted by Alzheimer’s. Two other Duke patients (or with loved ones who are patients) joined the Reddit conversation. This Alzheimer’s support group is why I love Reddit. Everyone supports each other with a deeply caring spirit.
Speaking of Duke, the nurses loved my new tee-shirt. It simply says “Alzheimer’s Sucks”. I told my nurse that I had designed another shirt that was more straight to the point, but it could not be worn at Duke (or anywhere in public!) . Yesterday, I designed a pair of men’s jogging pants that would pair well with either shirt. I promise those pants will start a conversation wherever you wear them. Please don’t be bashful to go on a shopping spree! Use discount code FRIEND for a 5% discount on your entire order. Here is a blurb about the store. I added a menu selection call The Alzheimer’s Awareness Collection.
I am reading Alzheimer’s Early Stages. This book was recommended by one of my doctors. So far, I find the book to be an excellent source of information for patients, family, friends, and caregivers. Today, I read about the letter former President Ronald Reagan wrote to the public announcing his diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. It is a deeply personal message delivered from an open heart.
With Lecanemab still flowing, I began researching to see if other United States Presidents had Alzheimer’s. There are five Presidents with documented or suspected cognitive decline; yet, only Ronald Reagan had Alzheimer’s.
Ronald Reagan (1981–1989): Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 1994, five years after leaving office. Reports suggest some signs of the disease, such as memory lapses and conversational, repetitive speech, may have been apparent during his second term.
Woodrow Wilson (1913–1921): Suffered multiple strokes, culminating in a major stroke in 1919 that left him severely incapacitated. His wife, Edith Wilson, and inner circle concealed the extent of his illness and managed day-to-day affairs.
Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933–1945): Suffered from serious physical ailments, including severe hypertension and cardiovascular disease, which likely affected his cognitive stamina and health during his final term.
Joe Biden (2021–2025): Has been the subject of public debate and media reporting regarding his age, verbal stumbles, and cognitive health.
Donald Trump (2017–2021, 2025-present): Has faced scrutiny regarding his speech patterns and mental acuity, with some observers pointing to instances of disjointed narratives
Before anyone jumps down my throat about my reporting on Donald Trump, I am simply summarizing the information I found and delivering it in an unbiased manner. You have to admit that he does show signs of cognitive decline or extreme exhaustion.
In closing, I woke up from a disturbing dream at about six this morning. I was extremely confused, disoriented, and breathing erratically. After a little love from Big Bit and drinking a glass of water, I began feeling somewhat normal (my new normal).
Once at Duke Clinic 2A, my mood changed for the better. I actually had an awesome day. I owe the change in mood to the dedicated Duke Specialty Infusion team and my great Reddit friends.