September 21 is World Alzheimer’s Day, a time to raise awareness about a disease that affects millions of families around the world. For our family, this day holds special meaning because Alzheimer’s disease is closely connected to Down syndrome.
Most people know that John has Down syndrome. What many may not know is that individuals with Down syndrome face a much higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. By age 65, more than 90 percent of people with Down syndrome will develop Alzheimer’s, a staggering difference compared to the general population. Scientists believe this is due to the extra copy of chromosome 21, which carries a gene that leads to the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain, one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.
This link makes Alzheimer’s not only a medical challenge for our community, but also a deeply personal concern for John and for us as a family.
Our Family Connection
Alzheimer’s already touches our lives in another way: John’s grandmother, whom we call Mamo, lives with Alzheimer’s disease. Watching her journey reminds us that this is not just about statistics or science. It is about families, love, and the daily realities of caring for someone you cherish.
For John, having both Mamo’s experience and his own higher risk makes this issue even more immediate. It motivates us to speak up, to raise awareness, and to do what we can to help.
How We’reTaking Action
On World Alzheimer’s Day, we want to share not only our story, but also the steps we are taking:
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Raising Awareness: We use our platform to educate others about the link between Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease, ensuring families have the knowledge they need.
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Supporting Research: We created Alzheimer’s Awareness Socks, with proceeds supporting our charity partner LuMind IDSC, which leads research into Alzheimer’s and Down syndrome.
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Participating in Clinical Trials: Our family is part of a medical study to advance understanding of Alzheimer’s disease in the Down syndrome community. It is our way of contributing directly to the search for better treatments.
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Giving Back: Since the start of John’s Crazy Socks, we have donated over $800,000 to charities, and Alzheimer’s research is part of that mission.
Join Us
World Alzheimer’s Day is not only about awareness —it’s about action. Together, we can support research, stand with families, and spread hope.
For us, this fight is personal. For John, for Mamo, and for every family touched by Alzheimer’s, we will continue to raise awareness, support organizations like LuMind IDSC, and spread happiness even in the face of challenges.
We invite you to join us: wear our Alzheimer’s Awareness Socks, learn more about the connection between Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s, and help us move toward a future filled with more hope and more happiness.
