Family Affair: United Against Alzheimer's
Teresa Ryan watched her grandmother decline from Alzheimer’s disease, then her mother was diagnosed six years ago at just 59. She and her husband, Brock, support multiple family members living with the diseasea journey with no clear roadmap. Each day demands guesswork, advocacy and emotional endurance.
Learning about the UW Initiative to End Alzheimer’s (IEA) leadership marked a turning point. “The first time I heard Dr. Asthana and Dr. Carlsson speak was the first time I actually felt like I could associate the word hope with Alzheimer's,” says Teresa.
The Ryans made the Initiative to End Alzheimer’s their passion project because it combines groundbreaking research with clinical care, physician education and community outreach—ensuring progress reaches patients and families across Wisconsin.
Their annual Hackers & Slackers Ending Alzheimer’s Golf Invitational in Madison has raised more than $250,000 for IEA research. It has also become a meaningful way for the family to reduce the stigma and isolation often associated with Alzheimer’s.
As members of the IEA Board of Visitors, Brock and Teresa have seen research advance faster than they ever imagined—from the advent of blood-based biomarkers to the promise of personalized treatments. As Brock puts it, “We need to shout this from the rooftops.”
Share Your Story
Did UW Health, the UW School of Medicine and Public Health, or the Carbone Cancer Center have a life-changing impact on you or someone you love? Be part of the Wisconsin Medicine story by inspiring others with your story. Share it now.