Donate to Walk To End Alzheimer's Click Here To read the story & meaning behind it.

Love, Legacy & Hope

When I lost my father to Alzheimer’s dementia on December 29, 2017, my world shifted. His passing not only left a deep personal void but also opened my eyes to a challenge that touches millions across our country. Nearly 7,000,000 Americans live with Alzheimer’s, and more than 11 million family members and friends provide unpaid care—a reality that weighs heavily on our society and our hearts.

In the years following his loss, I found a way to channel my grief into purpose. I had the honor of joining fellow advocates in Washington, DC, at our nation’s premier Alzheimer’s advocacy event, where voices from every congressional district came together. Inspired by that experience, I now proudly serve on the Alzheimer’s Association board for the state of Tennessee. Every day, I work to accelerate global research, drive risk reduction and early detection, and improve the quality of care for those affected by this devastating disease.

As a mother of three young women, the fight against Alzheimer’s is deeply personal. With nearly two-thirds of American women at a higher risk of developing dementia, I am determined to safeguard the future of my daughters and all those I love. I refuse to accept a future where my daughters—or any young woman—must endure the pain of watching a loved one fade away.

Our wedding is a celebration of love, unity, and new beginnings. In place of a traditional registry, we invite you to join us in honoring my father’s legacy and contributing to the fight against Alzheimer’s. By donating to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, you are not only supporting groundbreaking research and critical advocacy efforts—you are helping pave the way for a future free of dementia.

Thank you for being part of our journey and for your generous support in making a real difference. Together, we can transform loss into lasting hope.

Link to donate on Melissa's walk to end Alzheimer's