Happy 4th of July: Holiday Reminders and Sharing (again) a Mother and Daughter’s Love and Laughter

Happy 4th of July, friends! A humble reminder this holiday -- like others -- can pose a unique challenge for those living with dementia. Consider a smaller, quieter and calmer celebration that may involve only "muted" fireworks. You can find more 4th of July suggestions here.

Meantime, we're bringing back one of our favorite conversations featuring a courageous mother and daughter. Please enjoy the love and laughter of Shirley and Jennifer.

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Hello Alzheimer's host Karla Hult shares the beautiful bond between a mother and daughter, Shirley Heine Rowe Freckmann and Jenn Rowe Glass. And these two women are quite the dynamic duo: After graduating from Valparaiso University with a Bachelor's Degree in Theology, Shirley began a "life of service to others." She advocated for and taught others, while also managing to raise three children. For her part, Jenn has had a successful career in corporate communications, while raising a family of her own.

But despite their academic, professional and personal accomplishments, both Shirley and Jenn may be facing their greatest challenge yet: Shirley was diagnosed with Lewy body and Vascular dementia in 2021. 

In a touching conversation, mom and daughter discuss Shirley's current reality and devotion to each other. And Jenn delivers her own insights and gratitude for her village, including a brother and sister who continue to champion for their mother's care.

This is the second conversation in an occasional series, Voices of Dementia. As the title suggests, we'll be highlighting the courageous voices of people touched by Alzheimer's or other dementia, so that we can all listen to and learn from each other. With each conversation, please remember... You are not alone.