A recent Facebook post from Your
Austin Marathon said this: Battle San Jacinto. San Jac is a “cruel 85-foot
climb over a quarter of a mile that starts the final mile. If you didn’t prepare for it, it can really
take you down.” It’s not the worst hill
ever, but after several hours taking a beating, your quadriceps don’t know the
difference. It feels like a long hill even with all the people lining up to
cheer you on.
Today, on June 21, 2014, summer solstice, the Alzheimer’s Association, honors those who are on their longest
hills as teams from all over the world come together to “honor the strength,
passion and endurance of those facing Alzheimer's with a day of activity.” My
dad passed away several months ago from complications related to Alzheimer’s. For
the more than 5 million of Americans living with the disease and over 15
million caregivers, every day is an uphill effort. Every valley leads to a
bigger hill. Today, I pray for families of caregivers who are just now starting
their own journeys. My brother and mom were my dad’s primary caregivers. They
embraced the challenge in such a way that my dad was able to pass away at home
when he was ready. And, isn’t that what we all want ... to finish our race on our own
terms.
ABOUT THE LONGEST DAY
On The Longest
Day, teams around the world come together to honor the strength, passion
and endurance of those facing Alzheimer's with a day of activity. Held on the
summer solstice, June 21, 2014, this event calls on participants to raise funds
and awareness to advance the efforts of the Alzheimer's Association.
