From Caring to Fighting and Advocating

Kathy Siggins cared for her husband, Gene, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 1990. For nearly 13 years, she managed his care at home, facing the progressive challenges of the disease. As Gene's condition worsened, Kathy experienced profound isolation, noting that friends and colleagues gradually stopped visiting due to the changes in Gene's behavior.

The once vital man who handled the family finances and daily tasks was faltering, but his pride made it hard for him to accept help. Kathy found herself overwhelmed, and one day, in a moment of frustration, she accidentally drove a hole in the drywall while vacuuming. This incident became a turning point, leading her to realize that she needed to adapt her approach to caregiving.

Seeking support, Kathy joined a caregiver support group, which provided her with valuable resources and a sense of community. She also brought Gene to the Johns Hopkins Memory and Alzheimer's Treatment Center, where he received specialized care. The center's comprehensive approach included evaluating each caregiver's knowledge and preparing family members for the progression of their loved one's dementia.

After Gene's passing in 1999, Kathy channeled her grief into advocacy. Inspired by the breast cancer fundraising stamp, she initiated a campaign for an Alzheimer's semipostal stamp to raise awareness and funds for research. Her efforts spanned 17 years, involving collecting thousands of signatures and lobbying Congress.

In 2017, her perseverance paid off when the U.S. Postal Service released the Alzheimer's semipostal stamp, with proceeds going toward the National Institutes of Health for Alzheimer's research. Kathy's journey from caregiver to advocate highlights the impact that personal experiences can have in driving change and supporting others facing similar challenges.