Another Step

By: Michelle Remold

Since first hearing about Alzheimer’s Speaks and meeting Lori La Bey, I thought the Memory Café she had in Roseville was a great idea. It wasn’t like any other group I had heard of. In fact a story about the Memory Café on a local news station is what caught my interest about Alzheimer’s Speaks.

A few weeks ago I was able to see the Memory Café in person. I was impressed with the flow of the group and how supportive everyone was of those in the group. Their commitment to attending the Memory Café was evident as well. When I left, I was inspired to facilitate a group such as Lori’s.

Prior to visiting the Memory Café, I was in the process of setting up my own. The Memory Café I will be facilitating starts up in two weeks. The responses to starting a Memory Café in the community has been great. There appears to be a lot of excitement behind the beginning of the group.

Once deciding upon a start date for the Memory Café, I have worked on learning how to help the group be successful. I have read as much information as I can and have sat in on various support groups to learn more about group dynamics. I have to say that while I am nervous to be starting a Memory Café in my community, I am anxious to see how the group progresses.

Since meeting Lori and learning about Alzheimer’s Speaks, I have learned so much and have been able to expand my skill set. I am excited to be able to facilitate a Memory Café and to start on this next step in my journey to help those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Michelle graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with her Bachelor of Arts in Gerontology: Social Sciences and a minor in Family Studies. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Aging Studies and Nursing Home Administration from Minnesota State University Mankato.