Eric Thompson is 56 years old and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2013. He is not the only one in his family who has faced this disease. According to Eric, his mother had Alzheimer’s disease. 9 of the 11 children in her family had Alzheimer’s disease. And he currently has half a dozen cousins who currently have Alzheimer’s disease.
Younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease affects people younger than age 65. Of the more than 5 million Americans currently affected by Alzheimer’s disease, 5% of them have younger-onset. And Eric Thompson is one of them.
Since being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Eric has become very involved in the research process of Alzheimer’s, and is engaged with Early Stage programs through the Miami Valley Chapter.
“I can tell you from personal experience that the staff at the Dayton Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association is a group of people who really care and have a strong desire to help those of us who struggle with Alzheimer’s and their Support Group meetings reflect that,” Eric shared at this year’s Reason to Hope Fundraising Breakfast. “The meetings are very beneficial as a person learns to live with the life altering consequences of their diagnoses.” Read on to learn more about Eric and our Early Stage programs.
What do you like most about our Early Stage programs?
What I most enjoy in the Early Stage Programs is the interactions with others. It is essential to our mental/cognitive health to be engaged with others and the Early Stage Programs provides many opportunities for these types of engagements. It’s nice to make new friends who have a shared experience.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
Spend time with my wife Laurel, play with my cat Barney, go to church, read, take walks in the park, play basketball and listen to music.
More Information on Early Stage Programs:
Support Group: Learning to live with Early-Stage dementia takes courage and support. Join our group to learn from others who walk a similar path.
Memory Café: Memory Café is designed for the person living with Early-Stage dementia, encourages friendship and life enjoyment. Other Programs will be scheduled.
Initial Interview Required: The interview will be conducted over the phone or in person. Set up your interview by calling 1.800.272.3900 and ask to speak to Kathleen Feisley, Clinical Services Coordinator.
Please call 1.800.272.3900 for information regarding meeting times and locations for our Early-Stage Support Group, Memory Café and other Early-Stage programs.
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