Across Arizona, passionate advocates are stepping forward to share their stories, raise awareness, and fight for a world without Alzheimer’s. Today, we honor four incredible individuals whose journeys remind us of the power of resilience, compassion, and advocacy.

Terri Rice – Turning Grief into Action

From Tucson, Terri Rice knows firsthand the devastating impact of dementia. Her mother, Judith, passed away in early 2024 after battling severe dementia, and her aunt is now in the final stages of Alzheimer’s. Terri herself is participating in a seven-year Eli Lilly clinical trial after elevated P-tau levels put her at risk.

“Visit your local Alzheimer’s office or call the 24/7 Helpline. Take classes to understand dementia care. Apply for Arizona Long Term Care Services—even if you think you won’t qualify. And if you place a loved one in a care center, make sure they specialize in dementia and Alzheimer’s care.”

Terri emphasizes the need for legislative action and funding: “Those of us who have lived this reality carry the weight of these stories. It is our responsibility to speak, to push, and to demand better.”

Sara Scoville-Weaver – Finding Joy Amid the Challenges

In Chandler, Sara has been her mother’s guardian since a 2019 diagnosis of moderate dementia. She describes the disease as “cruelly long,” but her story is one of resilience and finding joy in small moments.

“Try and laugh and find joy, even when your loved one no longer recognizes you. There is still joy to be had in their presence.”

Sara spends time listening to music and watching movies with her mother, even as her mother sleeps most of the time. She wants the world to understand that Alzheimer’s is not just memory loss—it’s a terminal illness that robs people of their ability to walk, talk, and feed themselves.

Saarth Bhujang – A Young Advocate with a Big Heart

Saarth’s journey began in 2010 when a family member was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. From Phoenix, he searched for ways to help and quickly learned that patience and empathy are essential in caregiving.

“Be patient and caring so the person feels at home. Alzheimer’s patients still understand what’s happening around them and have feelings—they just can’t express them.”

Saarth advocates for raising awareness because those living with Alzheimer’s cannot always speak for themselves. His commitment to empathy and education makes him a vital voice in the fight against dementia.

Bob Ehlers – Living Boldly with Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s

Bob Ehlers of Litchfield Park was diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s and faced life-altering changes—leaving his job, moving to a lower-cost state, and enrolling in a clinical trial. Four years later, Bob is thriving thanks to innovative treatments like Lecanemab and self-administered injections. His courage to take risks has paved the way for progress.

“Give people as much independence as possible. Talk to them like they matter—because they do. Find meaning in life. Volunteer, stay engaged, use your brain, and surround yourself with joy.”

Bob is passionate about early diagnosis and research: “If you get it early, you can slow it down and extend your life. Slowing progression gives science time to find a cure.”

He also advocates for better support for younger-onset individuals, noting that their needs differ greatly from those of older adults.

Why These Stories Matter

Terri, Sara, Saarth, and Bob represent the heart of our mission: to support families, educate communities, and push for a future without Alzheimer’s. Their courage reminds us that advocacy begins with sharing your story.

Join the Movement

If you’ve been impacted by Alzheimer’s or dementia, we invite you to join these advocates in raising awareness. Share your story, volunteer, or donate today. Together, we can make a difference.

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