A Little Milk and Honey by Amanda Cook
Michigan in Pictures readers may know that my mother Jill died from Alzheimer’s, a truly awful disease. Every once in a while, you hear an Alzheimer’s related story that brings a smile to your face. That was the case on Friday when Detroiters on the east side were gifted with a blessing from above when $5000 was dropped from a helicopter on the memorial block party of Shine Car Wash owner Darrell “Plant” Thomas in accordance with his last wish.
The Alzheimer’s Association is dedicated to fighting the disease, and the month of June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Health Awareness Month:
Today, there are more than 7 million people age 65 and older in the United States living with Alzheimer’s. Two-thirds of Americans have at least one major potential risk factor for dementia. The brain changes that cause Alzheimer’s are thought to begin 20 years or more before symptoms start, which suggests that there may be a substantial window of time in which to intervene in the progression of the disease.
Experts believe there isn’t a single cause of Alzheimer’s. It’s likely the disease develops as a result of multiple factors. While not a direct cause of Alzheimer’s, the greatest known risk factor is advancing age. Although some risk factors like age can’t be changed, as many as 45% of dementia cases may be attributable to modifiable risk factors, such as high blood pressure and lack of physical activity. Research shows that adopting healthy behaviors — like getting exercise and good quality sleep — can improve your brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
The Independent shared one such story of a woman who has been able to reverse her Alzheimer’s diagnosis, so there is hope as long as we continue to look for solutions. Please encourage your representatives to defend medical research funding!!
Make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Amanda shares that Milk Thistle Honey is known to help with a variety of conditions including digestive and heart health. See more in her Butterflies & Bugs gallery on Flickr!
Michigan in Pictures 