The new Development manager for the Alzheimer’s Association of Wyoming understands the tragedy of Alzheimer’s disease better than most people. Robin McIntyre has lost a number of close relatives to the disease, including her mother, Lori. And Robin herself is living with the gene that virtually guarantees she will develop dementia prematurely.
Robin has been committed to the Alzheimer’s Association and the cause of finding a cure since 2006, when her mom was found to have the same gene that four out of five of Lori’s siblings and numerous ancestors carried which led them to develop younger-onset Alzheimer’s. Lori passed away in 2016 at age 56.
Robin, who will spearhead fundraising efforts for the Wyoming chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, has made the fight against Alzheimer’s her passion for the past 16 years. Now she’s carrying on the battle from inside the organization that has meant so much to her family.
“I’ve volunteered in many roles,” she said, noting that she’s spoken at Alzheimer’s conferences in several states, participated in panel discussions, taken classes, served as chair of the Albany County Walk to End Alzheimer’s, lobbied legislators at the federal level for increased research funding, and served on the board of directors of the Wyoming chapter. And she even ran a half-marathon to raise funds for research.
“It’s an honor for me to support a cause that’s already a passion of mine,” Robin said. “I understand the impact of the disease, and know that the Alzheimer’s Association is invaluable for families.”
Alzheimer’s is the seventh-leading cause of death in the U.S., and the only leading disease without a prevention or cure. More than 10,000 Wyomingites are among the 6.5 million Americans living with the disease that kills more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.
An understanding of rural challenges
Given that her mother and most of her family lived in North Dakota, Robin has an understanding of the challenges that families face in receiving appropriate health care in rural areas, particularly for something as unique as Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
“I’ve lived through those challenges,” she said, noting that she looks forward to the opportunity to create awareness across Wyoming of Alzheimer’s Association programs and services, which are all provided to families at no charge.
“I’ve never wanted Alzheimer’s to define who I am,” Robin said. “I’m thankful that the Alzheimer’s Association has helped me turn an adverse situation into a life that has been very rewarding.”
To learn more about Alzheimer’s Association programs and services, go to
alz.org/wyoming or call the free 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.
Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.™ For more information, visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.