10/16/2026
Sometimes the smallest moment makes the biggest difference. Etolia Briggs was pushing her mother, who is living with Alzheimer’s, down the sidewalk to catch their ride when her mother began to scream, one of the ways she expresses herself. Crystal Day-Black, who volunteers with the Alzheimer’s Association Maryland Chapter, was returning a shopping cart when she rolled up beside them, matched their pace and said, “Let’s race!” Then she called out “weeeeeee,” as if they were on a roller coaster.
In that moment, Etolia says, she felt seen as a caregiver. 💜 "Without saying anything extra, that action reminded me the screaming was okay." Thank you, Crystal, and thank you, Etolia, for sharing your story.
Small acts of kindness matter. If you’re caring for someone living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia, you’re not alone. Visit alz.org or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900
