My friends, you may have heard the news by now: I’ve been diagnosed with Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease. It’s taken some time, but I’m at peace with it. I’m gonna thread some background now, but first, since many of you have asked how you can help, a friend has organized this: gofund.me/c7d78380
I’ve had memory issues for as long as I can remember (Yes, this is a joke. They can take my mind, but not my wit!). But things have gotten worse of late. When I text a friend, I sometimes freeze because I can’t remember their name… I’ll forget the name of objects in front of me, like the TV remote…
I pause conversations because my train of thought runs off the tracks… I struggle with simple instructions and often ask people to slow down because I’m slow to process information… I’ve always been moody and can be irritable, but those swings have become more pronounced of late; I’m easily agitated
Over the last couple of years and in recent months, I’ve gone through a battery of cognitive tests, bloodwork and brain imaging. A while back, I was diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment, which can be a precursor to Alzheimer’s. Now, doctors say my symptoms have become consistent with it…
Alzheimer’s runs in my family. Early-Onset Alzheimer’s is rare and can progress more quickly. But, aside from the symptoms I’ve mentioned, I’m not currently experiencing symptoms that would prevent me from living independently. In fact, if you were to sit with me, you may not even realize I’m sick.
I’m doing ok, really. Maybe it’s because I’m already living with heavy duty health issues like HIV, diabetes and drug addiction (studies have tied drug abuse to dementia), but I’m not scared. I may have finally met my match, but I’m not gonna live in fear. I’m going to fucking live my life. Period.
Besides, it’s a miracle that I’m even still alive! I’ve survived overdoses and nearly developed full-blown AIDS and once nearly fell into a diabetic coma. The last 10 years since I embraced sobriety and recovery from my crack cocaine addiction have been a bonus— Gravy. I’m so grateful for my life.
I’ve lived the lives of 10 people. I’ve sat across from presidents and governors and entertainers and people from all walks of life. I’ve been in love and others have loved me. I’ve told stories that have made people smile and moved them to tears. I’ve been to places— Oh, the places I’ve been!
I’m gonna focus on things that matter from here on out: I’m gonna finish the manuscript I’ve been working on for years (it’s already so good! I’m so proud of it), I’m gonna put out new episodes of Back From Broken soon, and I’m gonna hug friends, family and dogs every day. I love you guys. VV
This is such sad news. I made a modest contribution, but will continue to share the fundraiser on social media. 🙏
❤️🙏🏼
Pulling for you, brother. It’s in my family as well, so I’m aware of the fight you have on your hands, but I know you’re gonna keep on truckin’. Stay strong. Here for you.