Editor’s Note: Jason Greene is a long-time member of the NYC Dads Group and contributor to this blog and its predecessor. In recognition of his many years with our group and given his family history, we’ve agreed to publicize his fundraising quest for the Alzheimer’s Association.

I entered my great-grandmother’s room to see her frail body sitting by the window. Her glassy eyes stared at a nearby tree. My dad walked over to her and called her name, waking her from her daze. She smiled at my father.

“I know I’m supposed to know you,” she said.

He ran down who he was and who was with him as she nodded politely.

Alzheimer’s disease has plagued my family for generations. And I’m not alone. More than 6 million people in the United States suffer from Alzheimer’s. If something does not change, that number is estimated to grow to 13 million by 2050. Studies show that those with a family member with Alzheimer’s have an increase of 30% to get the disease.

Anyone who loves someone with Alzheimer’s knows the cruelty of the disease. It robs you of everything — your memory, your ability to think clearly and perform even routine activities. My earliest memories of my great-grandmother are of a strong woman working on a farm. My last memories of her are painful. Unfortunately, these final years of her life are what I remember the most.

Dads want what’s best for their children. Most of us work to squash generational trauma, anger issues, self-loathing or myriad other obstacles that rise deep within our chests; however, medical conditions are one thing we only have limited ability to control. No one wants to pass on that kind of legacy. That is why I decided to run the New York City Marathon on Nov. 3 to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

I turn 50 this year and I wanted to do something big to celebrate. I have a friend, Patrick, who has run the NYC Marathon for the Alzheimer’s Association and he put me in touch with the organizers. A few clicks later, I was on the team and began my training.

During my training, I’ve encountered a lot of obstacles — plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, blisters, back pain and lots of chafing just to name a few. I’ve also been challenged by simply being a dad in a busy family. I’ve had to find time to fit in training while juggling my kids’ hectic schedules, cooking meals and overall exhaustion. Getting out the door is hard enough even without facing physical challenges.

On those days when I want to give up during my runs or I don’t feel like running at all, I remember the why. I’m not running just for my health, but for the hope that one day families will not endure the pain of watching a loved one fade away.

Donate to help fight Alzheimer’s disease

You can support Jason and his cause to find ways to prevent, treat and cure Alzheimer’s disease by donating to his fundraising page.

+ + +

This blog post is part of the #NoDadAlone campaign. Fathering Together/City Dads Group, the National At-Home Dad Network, and Fathers Eve are joining forces to amplify messages that help dads recognize we are not alone! Follow #NoDadAlone on Instagram, and learn more at NoDadAlone.com.

Alzheimer’s woman photo by Mario Heller on Unsplash.

With special guest (expectant dad), Henrik Lundqvist from the NY Rangers

Dads matter – not just on Father’s Day, but everyday in the lives of their children.  About two years ago, Mayor Michael Bloomberg established the Mayor’s Fatherhood Initiative (NYC Dads) to “strengthen New York City’s families by helping dads take a more active role in their children’s lives.”  The goals of the initiative include making all city agencies as “father friendly” as possible and championing the (same) message (that so many dad bloggers, dad groups, and journalists are) that DADS MATTER.

“The (2nd annual) NYC Dads Matter Award recognizes fathers from throughout the city who have overcome challenges to become positive and consistent influences in the lives of their children.”  Last night, I had the honor to go to Gracie Mansion to attend the powerful award ceremony for the ten “NYC Dads Matter” award recipients. We were excited and rooting on one of our NYC Dads Group members, Christopher Astacio, who was one of the deserving recipients.  Despite a constant battle with stomach cancer, Chris is a constant, active, and engaged dad to his two children.  His youngest daughter, Cristina, has autism and Chris is dedicated to fundraising and supporting research while he works full time as a teacher & as well as pursuing his Masters degree.  All of the other deserving award recipients had similar stories of overcoming significant challenges to be the best dad they can be.  Only ten dads are selected, but Alan Farrell, the NYC Fatherhood Services Coordinator, mentioned that 175 dads were nominated for the prestigious award this year.

Even though Mayor Bloomberg was not on hand (he was downtown with President Obama at the World Trade Center Memorial), Deputy Mayor Linda Gibbs, Alan Farrell, & special guest (expectant dad) Henrik Lundqvist, of the New York Rangers, made the entire evening feel very special.  For me, it was a wonderful feeling to be attending an event where fatherhood was front and center and the focus of the conversation.  I wanted to share some pictures to best capture the essence of the event.  Hat tip to Mayor Bloomberg, Alan Farrell, and the rest of their team for what they have accomplished in two short years & for their future plans on fatherhood in New York City.

NYC Dads Group member, Chris Astacio with NYC Fatherhood Service Coordinator, Alan Farell, Deputy Mayor Linda Gibbs, & Henrik Lundqvist

Enjoying the Grounds of Gracie Mansion

With Proud dad Chris Astacio & his daughter Cristina