The Alzheimer’s Dignity Project honors our parents, Bob & Sally Konopka. Bob suffered with Lewy Body Dementia and Sally was his loving caregiver.
It also honors our brother, Rob. Two months after our Dad passed away, Rob was diagnosed with Early-onset Alzheimer’s Disease. He was just 55 years old.
We started with a question:
Isn’t there SOMETHING someone like me can do for a job?
My Dad used to ask the question every time I visited, and my Brother asked it just the other day. The answer is that while there are many things someone with early stages of Alzheimer’s CAN do, there are little to no job opportunities for people with memory deficiencies.
And then came the epiphany.
What if there WERE a place where people with early stages of dementia could work AND a place for their caregivers to relax, recharge and learn RIGHT NEXT DOOR?
A community of patients and professionals, all working together to create a safe and dignified work environment for those who have lost everything and those who love and care for them.
A REAL job, surrounded by coworkers who understand the struggles associated with Alzheimer’s.
A cozy chair with a cup of tea, a good book and peace and quiet.
Information and assistance to navigate the maze of caring for an Alzheimer’s patient.
The security of knowing that your loved one is safe and sound nearby, under the guidance of medical professionals, while you take a little time to recharge.