MAKING A DIFFERENCE: GROUNDED BY ALZHEIMER'S BUT STILL RISING ABOVE

First in A Series of Inspirational Profiles of Individuals Confronting Alzheimer’s Disease
(Source: Alzheimer's Association )


Alan Romatowski - Grounded by Alzheimer's but still rising above

Three years ago, when Alan Romatowski was diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer's at the age of 55, he was a pilot for USAirways, a profession he'd enjoyed for the past 30 years.

"The diagnosis put a sudden stop to my career as an airline pilot," Alan says. "The news that I had Alzheimer's was, of course, initially devastating. But as time passes I am finding more and more to be thankful for."

Today Alan volunteers at a local Specialty Care Center, working in the physical therapy department and escorting Alzheimer's patients to and from medical appointments. Alan also delivers Meals on Wheels and works part time at a gas station.

"I became involved with the Alzheimer's Association shortly after my diagnosis," Alan says. "I turned to the Association for help and began participating in one of their support groups."

It wasn't long before Alan's natural leadership abilities came to the forefront. In 2008, Alan was appointed to the National Early-Stage Advisory Group, a leadership body of individuals living with Alzheimer's. In this role he serves as an advocate, traveling to speak about his experiences and rally others with Alzheimer's to help defeat this disease by participating in clinical trials of new treatments.

"I just completed a term with the Early-Stage Advisory Group for the Alzheimer's Association," Alan says. "I now work with the local Pittsburgh office and will once again be participating in Memory Walk. Recently I was elected to the Greater Pennsylvania Chapter Board of Directors."

"After my diagnosis I had a choice of either surrendering to Alzheimer's or go on fighting. I chose to fight," Alan says. "My wife and I stand shoulder to shoulder to fight this disease, and I appreciate and cherish my wonderful family more than ever."