When Connie Lissner’s husband was formally diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2020, her family’s world shifted in an instant. A retired attorney with no prior experience in caregiving, Connie quickly stepped into the role of full-time caregiver, determined to navigate the unknown path ahead. In search of support and answers, she turned to the Alzheimer’s Association and found more than just information. She found a community.
Since that life-changing diagnosis, Connie and her family have become deeply involved in the fight against Alzheimer’s. They’ve participated in the Chicago Walk to End Alzheimer’s every year, using the event as both a fundraiser and a celebration of love, resilience, and remembrance. Today, Connie’s husband resides in a memory care facility, but Walk Day remains a powerful tradition for the Lissners, a full day of unity, purpose, and reflection.
It was during one of those deeply personal moments that Connie’s son, Ben Lissner, experienced a turning point of his own.
On Valentine’s Day, Ben walked into a flower shop — not for a partner, but for his mom. “I realized my dad wouldn’t be able to get flowers for his wife anymore,” Ben shared. “He would want to if he could, but he couldn’t. It hit me that even though he’s still here, not all of him is here.”
Stories like Ben’s — stories of love, loss, and unyielding hope — are at the heart of the Alzheimer’s Association’s mission. Now, thanks to a generous $15,000 matching gift from the Make It Better Foundation, supporters have a powerful opportunity to make twice the impact.
Matching Campaign with Make it Better Foundation
From September 15 through September 21 — World Alzheimer’s Day — Make It Better Foundation has generously offered to match every gift up to a total of $15,000 raised by participants in our Chicago, Lake County, and North Shore Walk To End Alzheimer’s.
That means every gift goes twice as far in funding critical programs, lifesaving research, and round-the-clock support services for the millions affected by Alzheimer’s.
Across the U.S., more than 7 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s, and nearly 12 million unpaid caregivers, mostly family members, support them every day.
“It’s not just about watching someone forget,” said Ben. “It’s about watching someone fade. Watching my mom become not only a wife but a nurse, a guardian, and an anchor. It changed me. It made me want to do something.”
Donations will directly support:
- 24/7 Helpline Services – A lifeline for families and individuals seeking guidance and emotional support.
- Local Support Groups – Connecting caregivers and those affected by Alzheimer’s to vital community resources.
- Groundbreaking Research – Aiming to improve early detection, develop effective treatments, and ultimately, find a cure.
These services provide immediate relief to families like the Lissners, while also paving the way for long-term solutions.
Supporters like Connie and Ben are among thousands nationwide stepping up to fight back.
“Alzheimer’s changes everything,” Connie said. “But it also brings out the best in people. We show up. We speak out. We fight back. That’s what my family is doing, and that’s what this campaign is about.”
How to Help
Donate between Sept. 15-21, and your gift will be matched up to $15,000 thanks to the Make It Better Foundation. Then, join us at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s (search to find your local walk!) for a day of unity, purpose, and hope. Together, we can bring hope today and a cure tomorrow.
