Local Couple Makes Alzheimer's Awareness a Priority

Serge Morales and Susan Franklin, who recently celebrated their 28th wedding anniversary, know first-hand the daily struggles of Alzheimers.

Franklin, once an executive with Health Net, was diagnosed with the disease back in 2007 after she began experiencing symptoms like repeating herself and experiencing the inability to find the right words.

"When I was diagnosed, I cried," said Frankln, "But then I said I should do something."

According to the latest statistics released this week by the Alzheimer's Association, one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer's, and it is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.

The long-time Agoura Hills residents decided to become advocates of awareness for the disease and got involved with the Alzheimers Association.

"Susan and I are both positive people, and we decided to turn a negative situation into something positive," said Morales.

In addition to participating in several clinical trials, Franklin serves on the State Council for Alzheimer's, was on the advisory board for the California Alzheimer's Plan and is involved in the Southland Chapter of Public Policy.

"The work she does keeps her spirits up," said Morales.

Franklin and Morales are also on the planning committee for next month's 3rd annual Early Memory Loss Forum, presented by the Alzheimer’s Association. And this year, Morales is being honored as Caregiver of the Year.

"Serge is the most amazing man," Franklin said of her husband/caregiver. "He's so wonderful."

As part of his role as caregiver, Morales drives Franklin to events, plans their travel, maintains their schedules and assists her with the many talks she gives to community groups and the media.

Morales felt it was important to be part of the forum's planning committee, because "we understand what people are going through," he said.

The forum is geared for those who are concerned about memory loss, have early stage Alzheimer’s, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and other dementias, and it is open to family members, care partners and medical professionals. 

The Early Memory Loss Forum takes place on Saturday, April 13, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. To register, go to www.alzla.org/emlf. For more information, call the Alzheimer’s Association at 800-272-3900.