06/05/2026
Walking the Caregiver Journey: Why Steve and Becky Parks Give Monthly
Behind every monthly gift is a story, a connection, and a shared commitment to the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Through our Monthly Donor Spotlight, we are honored to share the voices and experiences of supporters who help make our mission possible each month. This month we want to spotlight Steve and Becky Parks.
For the Parks family, supporting the Pat Summitt Foundation was a deeply personal decision shaped by firsthand experiences with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. After walking through two very different dementia journeys with Steve’s parents, becoming monthly supporters of the Foundation felt like a meaningful way to help other families facing the same challenges.
“Our family has been through Alzheimer’s twice with both of my in-laws,” Becky shared. “While the diagnosis is hard for the patient, it is even harder for the family. Caring for someone with this disease is quite the challenge.”
Steve’s father was diagnosed after subtle changes began appearing in daily life — difficulty making decisions, repeating himself, and struggling with routine tasks. Over time, the disease progressed, bringing confusion, mobility issues, and eventually the need for skilled nursing care. Years later, Steve’s mother was diagnosed with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Her decline moved more quickly, complicated by additional health issues and increasing falls that slowly took away her independence.
“While you are trying to understand dementia and trying to give them the best possible care, you are watching your loved one slowly slip away,” Becky said.
Those experiences shaped not only their understanding of the disease, but also their desire to support research and caregiver resources through the Pat Summitt Foundation. They emphasized how important support systems can be for caregivers navigating the emotional and physical toll of dementia care.
“We were not involved in a support group, but we would recommend one,” they shared. “It would be beneficial to caregivers to know that they are not alone.”
Being part of the Foundation’s community of supporters gives them hope that families facing Alzheimer’s disease in the future will have greater support, resources, and progress toward better treatments and care.
“Until you walk in the shoes as a caregiver of a dementia patient, you have no idea of the challenge,” Becky said. “That is why we encourage others to join the fight. Supporting organizations like the Pat Summitt Foundation helps families know they are not alone while also helping advance research for future generations.”
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Steve and Becky's story is one of love, resilience, and hope. Honor families like theirs by joining the fight against Alzheimer's disease.
Become a monthly donor and help fund research, caregiver support, and education every month.
💜 Join today: https://donate.patsummitt.org/campaign/756477/donate
