Advocacy

I’m here to promote brain health literacy through my lived experience as a caregiver, expertise in neuroscience, and commitment to improving my community.

Two women, one in a wheelchair, outdoors on a sunny day with trees in the background, smiling at the camera.

This is my Mom, Karen.

A smiling woman in an orange turtleneck sweater sitting on a brown leather couch next to a large dog, possibly a Saint Bernard, lying on the same couch in a living room.
Three smiling people hugging at an outdoor event, two women wearing blue t-shirts with autism awareness logos and a man standing behind them, with a dog lying on the ground nearby and other people in the background.
Smiling woman wearing a black knit cap and beige sweater sitting on a brown leather chair in a cozy home interior.
Two women wearing winter clothing and hats, standing on a sidewalk next to a large Saint Bernard dog, on a suburban street with houses and trees in the background.

My Mom and I have always had this beautiful, unspoken bond: no matter where you are and what you’re going through, I’ll be there for you.

Two women smiling outdoors; one is standing behind the other, who is seated in a wheelchair, on a concrete patio with trees and greenery in the background.

When she received her diagnosis in late 2018, I was in the midst of my PhD program. There was no decision other than I would move home to be there with her. So far, we have had six amazing years of experiencing this progression, together. She even helped see me through to the finish line of my PhD!

I have used my neuroscience knowledge paired with the love and commitment that I have always known from my Mom, to learn how to be the best caregiver I can for her. This experience has been filled with so many highs and lows and I hope by sharing our story, we can make your journey a little bit lighter.

Shadow of a hand reaching towards a wall with light filtering through window blinds, casting striped patterns.

“We aim to have a good day, everyday. And the best way I can do that is to meet her where she’s at”.

Stylized brain logo

Being a caregiver has taught me to slow down, to stop rushing. It has reminded me to find gratitude in the simple act of daily living.