My daughter Lindsay says it well. Unlocking the “true face” is what “Fern’s Fronds” cards are all about. The artists featured on these cards all have Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) or related diseases. Alzheimer’s Disease is degenerative; it attacks the brain and results in impaired memory and thinking, and changes behavior. AD patients eventually experience a loss of verbal-language skills, but still reach out to say, “I need love, touch, communication, and to feel worthwhile. I’m still a human being; don’t forget me.”

Four million individuals have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in the United States. However, by the time baby boomers reach the age of greatest risk, over 14 million individuals will contract AD.

These cards represent the product of more than a year of art experiences, enjoyed by advanced AD patients in a nurturing foster care facility. All paintings are entitled by the artists unless otherwise designated. The proceeds from the sale of these cards go to research and support services for finding a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease.

Although it is our objective to help raise public awareness of this tragic disease, the most important part of this project has been the artistic process itself. The artists used a variety of paint colors, tools, clay, and collage materials to express feelings of excitement, happiness, sadness, anger, and love. It was most rewarding to watch their confidence and self-worth develop with each art piece. It has been a joy to help create a voice for those who can’t express themselves with words. We all have the opportunity to discover each Alzheimer’s victim’s “true face” if we just watch and listen.

Sally Morgan-Nelson

Fern’s Fronds
FAX: 503-657-9404
www.fernsfronds.org
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And the many contributors to the cause for Fern's Fronds Cards and Memory Walk donations!