And on Mondays they dance: Love in the face of Alzheimer's

It all started with a phone call. Sandy, in tears, called Ira, her husband of over 30 years. She told him that she couldn’t find the Pilates studio where she practiced for years. It was a trip she had taken from their apartment in New York City countless times. The following week, they made an appointment with a neurologist. Soon after, Sandy would be given a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment. And several years later, a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

Having worked in the pharmaceutical industry for many years together, Ira and Sandy were familiar with research studies. Ira tried to get Sandy into clinical trials but because she had Type 1 diabetes, she was excluded from participating in these studies.

As a professional who consulted with both the FDA and the pharmaceutical industry, Ira says he accepts the necessity of these kinds of exclusion criteria. Personally, it’s a different story. “As the husband of a woman suffering with a terrible disorder – though I understand it – I wish it wasn't the case,” he said.

According to Ira, there are signs of hope. “Pharmaceutical firms and research facilities worldwide are working on new and innovative compounds to address the underlying cause of the disease and not just treat symptoms. Coupled with companies like Antidote which is working to increase participation in and reinforce the importance of clinical trials. I know a cure will come soon. Sadly, it is likely to be too late for us.”

Despite the obstacles, Ira and Sandy continue to explore the world together. “Our days are full,” Ira reflects. “We just enjoy ourselves. We probably go to the ballet or the theatre three times a week. Sometimes we'll go to two shows in one day.”

And on Mondays, they dance.

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