I get asked a lot whether the volunteer work I do for the Alzheimer's Association ever gets too sad. That's a tough question to answer, because it's both yes and no. Yes, there are days when talking about my mom and our loss feels like picking at a scab. I always cry when I write posts about how much I miss her (like right now) or try to define what she meant to me and so many others. Some days I sit with the silent fear that friends I've met through this work will die from Alzheimer's, or lose the people they love. And when I lose a word or my brain won't work right, I panic sometimes, because it runs in my family. And no, because of those same reasons. Talking about my mom keeps her here with me. It isn't always sad, because honestly, my mom was really fun and funny. There are so many stories to share that have nothing to do with when she was sick or that she died from Alzheimer's. And when I worry about my friends and their loved ones, or myself and my family, I'm comforted by the very work I'm doing to fight. To ensure the research gets done, that medicines and treatments get created, and that our government fights alongside us to find the first survivor. Our doctors didn't really understand what was happening until it was too late. We didn't know about all the resources. We didn't have all the treatments. We couldn't help my mom the way she deserved to be helped. But I can help ensure that others get access to all of that now. Just last week, a friend texted me that their parent had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's and asked if we could talk. Building awareness by telling my story helps others feel comfortable sharing their stories with me. And in turn, I get to direct them to the right places for accurate information and support. That's precisely the reason I gave when I started volunteering in 2018. Turning that sadness, and anger, into action has far and away been the best form of grieving I could have ever imagined. So yes, it's super sad sometimes. But it's also very rewarding. And now my son can participate and heal with me and the thousands of other advocates who do this powerful work. If you're navigating a diagnosis in your family and don't know where to start, message me. Or call the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 helpline: 800-272-3900. I'll point you to what I wish we'd had.