Dear Friends and Supporters of CaringKind,

My mother, Karen, was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease in 2007 at the young age of 59 years old. She chose to confront her illness head on and committed herself to advocacy and action, and she summoned her deep inner drive and bravery to keep being active and joyful as long as she could. She inspired all those who knew her, and after a 12-year battle with Alzheimer’s, she passed in 2019.

During our family’s journey with her diagnosis, I became a CaringKind Board member - becoming an advocate for her and taking action for all those impacted by Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

Currently, with almost 7 million people in the United States currently living with Alzheimer’s disease and over 11 million people currently caregiving for those diagnosed, I recognize my family is not alone in a journey with the disease.

CaringKind has been the trusted partner for those affected for over 46 years. They create, promote, and deliver comprehensive and compassionate care and support services offered free of charge for individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias nationwide. CaringKind believes in the power of caregiving and seeks a world where everyone dealing with dementia has the support they need, when they need it, where they need it.

I am pleased to share CaringKind is not only tirelessly committed to supporting those living with and caregiving for those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias, but they are also committed to enhancing brain health and overall well-being in our community.

Statistics now report that 40% of dementia is preventable. And we are taking action. I am thrilled to share an exciting new initiative with you: The Blue Zones Challenge at CaringKind.

The Blue Zones Challenge is a four-week guide designed to help individuals adopt lifestyle habits inspired by regions in the world where people live the longest and healthiest lives. These habits, known as the Power 9®, include moving naturally, having a sense of purpose, downshifting to relieve stress, following the 80% rule in eating, emphasizing plant-based diets, moderate wine consumption, belonging to a community, putting loved ones first, and maintaining a supportive social circle.

Why is this important?

At CaringKind, we recognize the significant impact that lifestyle choices have on brain health. By embracing the principles of Blue Zones, we aim to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias within our community.

My mother would be proud of this action! Please join me in donating to the CaringKind Mother’s and Father’s Day Campaign to ensure that CaringKind can continue to provide the much-needed trailblazing action, guidance, support, and comprehensive services and programs free of charge – and hope – to those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias, their family members, and caregivers.

Together, we can create a healthier future for ourselves and our loved ones.

With gratitude,
Jon Henes CaringKind

Board Member (since 2016) and advocate