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Thursday, may 5, 2016
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Journal photo by Emily Williams
tusk task Birmingham Zoo’s beloved African elephant, Bulwagi, is set to receive potentially life-saving surgery news page 12
Pam Arenberg, vice president of Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama first became involved with the organization when her father was diagnosed with vascular dementia several years ago. Her mother now suffers from the disease. On May 7, ACA is celebrating its 25th anniversary at the annual Garden Art Party.
Making Memories
Life lessons One mom shares insight on being a special needs parent life Page 14
A Daughter Finds Light in Darkness of Alzheimer’s Disease
By Emily Williams When Pam Arenberg was first intro-
duced to Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama, it was a somber visit to one of the organization’s family support groups. Her father had been diagnosed with vascular dementia, most likely due to a small stroke, and she found herself unpre-
pared for the rapid deterioration of his mind and body. “One of the best things about the support group is that you realize that you are not the only person going through this and that it is not so uncommon,” Arenberg said. “You also get a better idea of what’s down the road so you aren’t so shocked or alarmed.”
Flash forward to today and Arenberg is celebrating three years as the organization’s vice president of development. She still attends support groups, this time because her mother has Alzheimer’s. Though losing another parent to dementia is a tragedy, she found that the knowledge she gained through her father’s illness left See Making memories, page 15
back by popular demand Piggly Wiggly almost ready to return to Crestline Village food Page 32
In an emergency, it’s about time. GrandviewHealth.com The E.R. team will work to have you initially seen by a medical professional within 30 minutes of your arrival in the Emergency Room.
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look forward 4/13/16 2:50 PM