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November is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month, offering an important reminder to support the more than 400,000 family and friends serving as Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers in Pennsylvania.
My father, Ray Marcon, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease during the summer of 2021.
The diagnosis wasn't much of a surprise, as he was exhibiting Alzheimer's-like symptoms, but it still hurt our family deeply all the same.
My mother, Pamela Marcon, has been the caregiver of our family (I have two brothers and a sister), but from the moment my siblings and I were born, this responsibility would be her greatest test.
Ultimately, the disease doesn't let up, and my mom, who made all the decisions related to my father with her heart, couldn't provide him with the level of care that he needed.
So, earlier this year, our family made the difficult decision to place him in a memory care facility.
It's a devastating disease, not only for the patient but for family and friends.
I invite all State College/Altoona area residents to join the Alzheimer's Association Greater Pennsylvania Chapter in supporting caregivers.
Run errands, help with a household chore, give caregivers a break by spending time with the person with dementia and educate yourself about the disease.
These small gestures can make a big difference and offer well-deserved support to those who give so much.
For resources and support, visit alz.org or call the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.
Anthony Marcon
Boalsburg