Gene Wilder and I enjoyed a Cinderella love story going back to when I helped Gene as a consultant on his movie "See No Evil, Hear No Evil." Married soon after, we enjoyed each other away from the spotlight, traveling the world, playing tennis, painting, helping our families, friends, charities, and enjoying quiet time away from the limelight.
A few years after signs of cognitive impairment started showing up, Gene was finally diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2010. For six more years, I was his loving wife and caregiver, until Gene's death in 2016.
Now an advocate for increased funding of research for a cure, I have shared my story with the public, hoping that increased awareness of stories similar to mine will also lead to earlier and improved cognitive testing for dementia among primary care physicians.
I have participated in international conferences on Alzheimer's, and am an ardent supporter of the Alzheimer's Association and its mission. I was also thrilled to be honored with the Caregiver Award at the Inaugural Imagination Ball on April 29, 2022. Through Gene Wilder Official on social media and the new genewilderofficial.com, we hope to continue to inspire, create awareness and raise funds to battle Alzheimer's disease. @genewilder_official on Instagram!
Please join me in support of the Association's important mission by making a donation of any size. Every dollar helps!