Why I Walk to End Alzheimer's -- Cydni Henry's Story

The Alzheimer's Association Delaware Valley Chapter is spotlighting people who are making a difference in the fight to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia, by participating in the upcoming 2021 Walk To End Alzheimer's—the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research.

Today, we lift up Cyndi Henry, of West Philadelphia, a participant in the Philadelphia Walk to End Alzheimer’s, which takes place on Saturday, November 13 at Citizens Bank Park.

Henry is walking in honor of her mother, who was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 2016.

“My mom has always been my cheerleader, and now I am hers,” said Henry. “My mom is one of the kindest, most selfless people. She has been married to my dad for 56 years, raised three children and provided help, shelter and a safe place for many in need in the community.”

Henry’s mom, who currently lives in West Philadelphia with her husband, always loved to paint and write poetry, and she is very strong in her faith.

“She was always a devoted caregiver, not only to me and my siblings, but she cared for my grandmother who had breast cancer. She was always doing for others, her life is a labor of love. And now, my dad and I are caring for her.”

The funds raised by Henry’s effort, and others, helps propel the Association's mission forward - accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support--support services for those with the disease, and for caregivers like Henry, her father, and her sister Cassandra. Henry’s mother also has a 24-hour care team who support the family at home.

“For all that my mom did for others, I want to be able to help do for her. I am so thankful for my husband, too, who is so supportive through all of this. It’s not always easy to take care of her, and also to take care of myself, but it’s what my mother would have done.”

More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, the sixth-leading cause of death in the U.S. and the only disease among the top 10 that cannot be cured, prevented or even slowed. Additionally, more than 11 million family and friends provide care to people with Alzheimer's and other dementias in the U.S. In Pennsylvania alone, there are more than 280,000 people living with the disease and 500,000 caregivers.

To donate to Henry’s effort visit her fundraising page here. Or visit alz.org/walk, to learn more, register, and find a Walk location near you.

For more information about the Alzheimer's Association, visit alz.org or call the 24/7 helpline at 800.272.3900.