Call our 24 hours, seven days a week helpline at 800.272.3900

24/7 Helpline 800.272.3900
Donate Once Donate Monthly Donate

Edward Jones Associates Are Personally Invested in the Fight to End Alzheimer’s

Edward Jones Associates Are Personally Invested in the Fight to End Alzheimer’s
Share or Print this page
Share or Print this page
October 22, 2024
Share or Print this page

Edward Jones associates and their families continue to make a difference in the fight to end Alzheimer's in honor of the people they love, their clients, and in support of all those facing Alzheimer's and other dementia. Meet some of the passionate people dedicated to the fight to end Alzheimer's.

Lang Alexander

Branch Office Administrator, Florida

In 2021, I participated in my first Walk to End Alzheimer's® as part of Edward Jones' National Team. I never imagined that one year later, I'd be walking in honor of my sister, Loni. In March 2022, Loni was diagnosed with dementia.

Loni was a senior accountant at IBM and Office Depot — bright, independent and proud of her accomplishments. She retired at 63 and was diagnosed three years later. She moved in with me, and I became her caregiver.

Over the last two years, I've watched her decline. The happy, healthy and independent person I knew no longer recognizes me or her family. Alzheimer's has stolen the life she worked so hard to build.

On Aug. 7, 2023, at 2 a.m., overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn, I made my first call to the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900). The kindness and understanding from the specialist who answered helped me in my journey as Loni's caregiver. I'll never forget that moment.

Experiencing firsthand how devastating this disease is has deepened my commitment to support the work of the Alzheimer's Association. Their resources are invaluable to families like mine. I'm incredibly proud to work for a company like Edward Jones, which stands beside us in this fight.
 

Ed DeVault

Principal, Missouri

We weren't the first to notice the subtle changes in my mother-in-law, Candy. In 2013, a family friend who hadn't seen her for a few years called us after working on a project with her, saying, "You need to have Candy evaluated; something just isn’t quite right." That call led to tests, doctors' visits, screenings and, ultimately, a diagnosis in her mid-50s that would change her life — and ours — forever.
 
Our family began participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer's that same year. It meant so much to Candy to have us all supporting her. Soon after, Edward Jones began their sponsorship with the Alzheimer's Association. It meant so much to our family to have Edward Jones connected to something that had impacted our family so dearly.
 
Candy's battle with Alzheimer's lasted 7.5 years. Some years were great, while others were incredibly tough. Today, we continue to walk in her honor. She'd be so proud to see the impact her story has made!
 

Justin Cook

Financial Advisor, Georgia

Growing up, family was everything. Every Sunday, we had lunch at my grandparents' house. During the week, they often watched us while my parents worked. Those gatherings created many wonderful memories, especially with Papa Cook.

I remember lying in the hammock and throwing frisbees with him in the backyard. As a retired principal, he loved being with his grandchildren. He had a gentle spirit that always brought calm to any situation. Though he's no longer with us, he continues to inspire me to be kind and gentle with my own kids while remembering to have fun.

When I was around 11, I started noticing Papa Cook getting angry over small things that normally wouldn't bother him. Shortly after, my parents spoke to Mama Cook, and she revealed that he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's more than a year before. We were shocked and saddened. I didn't fully understand what it meant, but I knew it was serious.

Looking back, I realize Mama Cook may have been embarrassed or ashamed — she didn't talk about the disease and took on most of his care herself. As a nurse, she likely felt like it was her responsibility.

I prayed the interventions being tested in the clinical studies he participated in at Vanderbilt would lead to a cure because I couldn't imagine him not being at my baseball games. His treatments continued for a few years, but eventually, he no longer recognized me. He had to move to an assisted living facility, as it became too much for my grandmother to care for him at home. Watching him in the final stages was heartbreaking. When he passed, I fully grasped the devastation of Alzheimer's, as it takes away a person's mind in a way that feels worse than any physical illness.

One of my favorite memories is watching my grandparents dance together at our Christmas parties. I felt honored to dance in his memory at the 2024 Dancing Stars of Atlanta, where I raised nearly $65,000 for the Alzheimer's Association. That experience motivated me to become a stronger advocate for Alzheimer's awareness and join the event committee for the 2025 Dancing Stars of Atlanta.

Alzheimer's is often overlooked because it's so hard to confront, but supporting the work of the Alzheimer's Association gives me the chance to raise awareness and rally support. I know Papa Cook would smile down, seeing me dance to raise awareness for Alzheimer's.
 

Janet McConnaughey

Branch Office Administrator, Wyoming

I participate in Walk to End Alzheimer's to honor my mother, Joann McConnaughey. My mom lived with the disease for more than 10 years; the last five years were spent in a long-term care facility. She was admitted just a couple of weeks before the facility went into lockdown due to COVID.

After 14 months, we were finally allowed face-to-face visits — 30 minutes, once a week. During this time, I noticed a significant decline, not just in her mental capacity but physically as well. Some days she'd be cheerful, smiling and always thanking me for taking care of her. On other days, she would grow frustrated and yell, leaving me heartbroken as I walked out of the facility in tears. Still, I always believed that if I could make her smile, somewhere deep down, she still knew who I was.

My mother passed away on November 16, 2023.

I walk in hopes that someday there will be a cure and that no other family has to deal with this disease.
 

Vickie Dear 

Retired Headquarters Associate, Missouri

I walk for my mother.

She was vibrant, energetic, always smiling and always happy. In our small community, she was a hard worker and an inspiration, always willing to help anyone who needed support.

But everything began to change in her early 60s. She became forgetful and disoriented. There were times she'd drive into town and forget who she was or how to get home. It was unpredictable — some days she was her old self, and other days, someone completely different.

We took her to every specialist that we thought could help, and she underwent countless tests — CT scans, MRIs, blood tests — hoping to find answers. After ruling out everything else, the doctors finally gave us the heartbreaking diagnosis: Alzheimer's disease.

She went from being this amazing and vibrant person, to someone who couldn't dress herself or remember who she was. She passed away in 2001. After her death, we watched as all of her siblings began showing the same symptoms, slowly following the same path of Alzheimer's.

I walk to help find a cure. I walk for my mother, her siblings and for all other families who share a similar experience. I walk because I want to see this disease eradicated during my lifetime. Together, we can find a CURE!
 

Maureen Townsend

Branch Office Administrator, Alaska

I have no family history of Alzheimer's or dementia, but receiving such a devastating diagnosis has always been a very real fear for me.

My life's mission has always been about experiences — skydiving, jumping off cliffs in Thailand, riding camels in Egypt and floating in hot air balloons over the castles of Spain. My memories and stories are everything to me.

Before joining Edward Jones, I spent seven years as a surgical assistant. During my clinical training, I worked with dementia patients. Those experiences cast a dark shadow. The fear of one day getting Alzheimer's haunted me.

That darkness began to lift about a year ago at a regional meeting when the local Walk to End Alzheimer's manager took the stage with a blaze of energy and excitement. She shared her connection to the disease, and her excitement over advancements in treatment. I was both surprised and excited when I heard about the progress being made and all the resources the Alzheimer's Association offered.

At that moment, I found myself face to face with my biggest fear, but this time I had hope — hope for early treatment, hope for a cure.

In September 2023, I participated in my town's first Walk to End Alzheimer's. I was overwhelmed by the strong show of support from my clients and the community. Participating in the Walk not only brought us closer to our clients, their families and the community but also gave me renewed hope for a future world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.
 

Lynne Pittard and Jeff Maciejewski

Client and Financial Advisor, Colorado

My client, Lynne Pittard, spent 40 years teaching painting, including delighted viewers on her PBS show, "Painting with Pittard." She eventually gave up her career to care for her mother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at 72. Her mother lived with Lynne and her husband for the last eight years of her life, passing away at 92. Though the last five years were particularly challenging, Lynne treasures that time. "To have those last years with her wasn't a burden. It was a joy."

Four years ago, Lynne, was diagnosed with the disease that took her mother. At age 78, she continues to paint and wants to use her art to help others. Lynne firmly believes in the therapeutic power of art.

As a financial advisor, my message to all clients is the same: Plan for your future before a diagnosis like Alzheimer's impacts your financial stability. Many clients expect their children to take care of them, but they often overlook the financial burden this can place on their families. Taking proactive steps now can ease the strain on loved ones during already difficult times.

I encourage everyone to join Lynne and me in our efforts to make a difference for those with Alzheimer's. Start or join a Walk to End Alzheimer's team today.
 

Taira Warren

Branch Office Administrator, Texas

Jimmie Ibera Warren, known to me as "Grannie," lived with Parkinson's disease. With 10 children and a large family of grand, great-grand and great-great-grandchildren, it was heartbreaking witnessing the destruction of this neurological disorder. Grannie was the heartbeat of our family, the glue that kept us all together. Yet, as Parkinson's took its toll, she only remembered me as a middle schooler, not the person I am today. Many of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were unknown to her altogether.

Imagine someone you love so deeply having no idea who you are.

I participate in Walk to End Alzheimer's in the hopes that one day, no family will have to experience what mine and so many others have gone through when a loved one experiences dementia.
 

Tina Hrevus

Principal, Chief of Staff, Edward Jones Home Office, Missouri 

My first experience with Alzheimer's was with my paternal grandmother when I was in my late teens. The irony of the situation was that she had spent the final years of her career as a nurse, caring for Alzheimer's patients at a hospital in St. Louis, only to become a patient herself. I can remember one particular visit when she had forgotten most people in her life, but as I walked into the room, she said my name. It astonished everyone in the family who was there that day.

Now, I'm facing Alzheimer's again — this time with my dad, who was diagnosed a few years ago. My mom cared for him as long as she could, but we moved him into a memory care center in July 2022. The irony here is that he always said he didn't want to end up like his mom, yet he finds himself on the same path. Thankfully, he's well cared for by a wonderful staff and team of caregivers. He has his good days and bad days.

Most recently, I participated in the St. Louis Walk to End Alzheimer's and brought the sign from the Walk to him. My mother had warned me that he could no longer read, so I'd have to read it to him. Imagine my excitement when he was able to read almost every word on the sign! My dad has always been known for his sense of humor, and although he's lost much of his verbal skills and now uses a walker, that spark of light is still in his eyes when he sees a family member or hears a good joke.

The toll of Alzheimer's on families and finances is steep. I walk for a cure and deeply appreciate everyone who walks beside me. While a cure won't come in time for my dad, I remain hopeful that it will come for future generations.
 

Kathy Myers

Branch Office Administrator, Michigan

My connection to Alzheimer's and dementia began long before I was old enough to fully understand it. My great-grandmother was diagnosed with dementia, and my grandmother was her primary caregiver until she passed away in early 2002.

About 10 years ago, my grandmother started to forget things. My sisters and I would sometimes receive two birthday cards in the mail, or occasionally none at all. During our lunches together, she'd ask about my plans for the day, only to repeat the same question about 15 minutes later. She even struggled to remember how to get to a fast-food restaurant just minutes away. As her forgetfulness worsened, doctors officially diagnosed her with dementia. For the past four years, she has lived in a memory care facility, and I know we are fortunate to be able to afford that care.

This past summer, my grandmother fell and broke her kneecap. I met her at the hospital so she wouldn't have to sit alone while my mom flew back from vacation. When I saw her in the emergency room, she asked me my name and remarked that I looked just like her granddaughter. The heartbreaking reality is that I know this won't be the last time she forgets who I am.

I'm involved with the Alzheimer's Association because no one should have to watch as their loved ones lose their memories.
 

Jason Maniaci

Tempe Headquarters Leader, Arizona

I consider myself one of the lucky ones, as my close family and loved ones have not been directly impacted by Alzheimer's. My journey to support this cause is a little different. My involvement with the Alzheimer's Association began in 2017, shortly after I joined Edward Jones. I was new to the firm and eager to get involved in a volunteer effort. I discovered that Edward Jones had recently committed to the fight against Alzheimer's. I joined the newly formed Alzheimer's Committee and was immediately struck by the passion of those supporting this cause. I knew right away that it was something I wanted to be a part of.

Over the past seven years, I have participated in numerous Alzheimer's events, including the Walk to End Alzheimer's each year. Through these events, I have heard countless stories from families affected by the disease. Their stories are both devastating and inspiring. It is these stories that motivate me to continue my support. I hold on to the hope for a day when Alzheimer's is a thing of the past.
 

Pramada Poudel

Home-Based Associate, Massachusetts

It started eight years ago, when the heavy blackness of the unforgiving clouds of confusion began to consume my mother, pulling her into fragmented realities. It was the longest storm of our lives. At first, no one knew what was happening to her, but only that her sensitivity to everything started taking on its own painful personality. She did not recognize herself as slices of her mind were being stolen and then later her body.

None of us knew that her suffering, and ours, would become unimaginable. When she could still speak, my family learned to step into her squared world as our universe was not round anymore. I truly believe it helped her maneuver the maze of confusion. I sang her songs that she taught me when I was 3 and, afterwards, we laughed loudly. When she could no longer speak or walk, we began communicating by listening to each other's hearts, and I swear to you, our hearts kept singing even as the monsters of this disease taunted us for many years. We learned grace from those precious wordless moments and knew instinctively that this relentless disease could never change our unconditional love for one another.

My beloved mother died at home when Alzheimer's disease finally let her go. I held her hand as she took her last labored breath.

It has been very difficult to let go of the trauma of all those years. Now, I know it was an honor to take care of her. My mother's soul lives in my very existence, and the experience of love has lifted the dark clouds in my heart, even if still quivering. I believe this experience has promised me a life of purpose, one that can only come from the courage to give and share my story with you.

My experience has helped me become an Alzheimer's activist and helped heal. It inspired me to leave my previous role of 22 years as a SR, BOA, and to move into the Estates Department.

The Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's is the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research programs. Edward Jones continues its investment to enhance Alzheimer's Association care and support programs, provide educational materials for Edward Jones clients and associates, and fund critical Alzheimer's research. Learn more.

Showing {{currentNumberOfComments}} of {{totalNumberOfComments}} Comments
Post a new comment

Keep Up With Alzheimer’s News and Events

The first survivor of Alzheimer's is out there, but we won't get there without you.

Donate Now

Learn how Alzheimer’s disease affects the brain.

Take the Brain Tour

Don't just hope for a cure. Help us find one.

Learn More