Honoring Those Who Have Served

​Last night I had the chance to be a special presenting guest at the 8th Annual Dreamgiver's gala, which is put on by the Forever Young Foundation. This organization aims to honor American veterans by giving them the opportunity to return to the countries they have fought to defend our country. 
It was such an honor to be able to be a part of such a special night for out nation's heroes, and an even greater pleasure to see their families beam with pride while we honored each and every person who in the room who had served.

Pictured with one of our incredible veterans of the evening!

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​If you know my family, you know how proud we were of my great-grandfather, who we called Grandaddy. My great grandfather was 100 years old when he passed away about a year and a half ago. Grandaddy fought in World War 2 and came home from war in a body cast. Growing up we were always at medal ceremonies in his honor and to celebrate his bravery and service to our nation. 

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Pictured with our outstanding Volunteer of The Year, Emily Garret □

Unfortunately we lost my great grandaddy to Alzheimer's disease- and that's something that never gets easier for me to grasp. 
But something really special happened that evening for myself, as well.
One of the most memorable parts of the evening for me, was hearing from those in attendance that they recognized me from my work with the Alzheimer's Association, and how important that work is when it pertains especially to our veterans. 
While serving our veterans is a huge honor, we do have to keep in mind that they are a rapidly aging population that is at risk for Alzheimer's disease. 
This event reminded me that I'm advocating on behalf of our veterans too- and if they fought on behalf of our country, isn't it our duty to fight on behalf of their health, families, and memories?

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​I wish my family and I had the chance to Bring my Grandaddy to this incredible event to honor him and to introduce him to his fellow veterans, but we never had that chance. It's an incredible honor to be able to serve these men in his memory- I sure hope he's looking down and that he's proud, but watching the couples dance last night reminded me of one thing. No matter what, granddaddy is dancing the night away on heaven's dance floor with his wife, MiMi Anne, and that's all that matters in the end.