The Alzheimer's Association would like to thank all of our Champions who work hard to fight against Alzheimer's Disease. Whether you are a caregiver, fundraiser or an advocate, you are bringing us one step closer to finding a cure. Once a month, we will feature a story about how Alzheimer's affects our Champions. If you'd like to tell your story, please contact Rachel Demeter at Rachel.Demeter@alz.org or 704-532-5282.

 

August story

Pharmacists play a critical role in supporting the estimated 5 million people with Alzheimer’s and their families. Now you can nominate your pharmacist for the C.A.R.E.™ (Commitment to Alzheimer’s Recognition of Excellence.) Pharmacy Award. 

Robin Cooke has been a practicing pharmacist for 30 years and over the past 6 years she has been extensively involved with Alzheimer’s patients.  “My own father, who passed away in August suffered from AD for over 10 years.  During his journey, I experienced all the feelings of denial, hope for a cure, trying to find help with placement, financial worries and burden, and trying to find the best medical care possible towards the end of his life,” Cooke recalls.

Cooke continues to work with the families of AD patients, helping them find ways to manage medications, helping them to realize the limitations of these patients, educating them on the medications and what to expect as the disease progresses, and trying to help them through the denial. Her experiences have given her the knowledge to point them in the right direction when they need help and many rely on her for the emotional support needed. “The most rewarding part of my job is working directly with the patients and letting them know that I truly care about them.  Pharmacy is not just standing behind a prescription counter and counting pills, it’s the interaction with the patients and the responsibility you have to give them the best care possible.”

For the eighth consecutive year – and joined by the Alzheimer’s Association for the first time – Eisai Inc. is presenting the C.A.R.E. Pharmacy Award. The award is a reflection of the Eisai human health care (hhc) mission, which regards patients and their families as the most important participants in the healthcare process.
 
To be eligible, a pharmacist must:
· Be licensed. Pharmacy technicians or assistants are not eligible.
· Be involved in activities that have a positive effect on people with Alzheimer’s disease and their families.
· Have been involved in these activities some time during the last year.

For a nomination form and more information, visit www.carepharmacyaward.com