Journalist and author Greg O'Brien, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's over a decade ago, shares his experience of speaking in Washington D.C. at the Lincoln Memorial with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer. O'Brien delivered a speech in front of a crowd of thousands to advocate for the importance of scientific research for Alzheimer's and other diseases and protest proposed cuts to medical research funding that would affect Alzheimer's and other disease research. 

This episode also includes commentary from George Vradenburg, founder and chair of UsAgainstAlzheimer's, discussing the coalition of patient advocacy organizations fighting to maintain the integrity of America's biomedical and scientific research institutions in the face of proposed budget cuts.

This episode is sponsored by Genentech.

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In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer continues explore the challenges of false Alzheimer's diagnosis in her interview with Doreen Monks, a former neuroscience nurse practitioner. Upon re-examination, Monks' diagnosis was revised eight years later as mixed dementia, but the stigma of Alzheimer's has already taken its toll.

Part 2 highlights issues in the dementia diagnosis process, the gap between scientific advances and clinical practice, and the emotional toll of misdiagnosis. Doreen Monks' personal journey offers both practical advice and emotional support for others facing similar challenges, emphasizing hope, proactive health management, and the need for scientific advances reaching clinical practice more efficiently. Take a listen!

BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is sponsored by Genentech (gene.com)

Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger

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What if your life and career were upended with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s only to learn eight years later that the diagnosis was wrong?  In this BrainStorm episode, host Meryl Comer talks with Doreen Monks, a former neuroscience nurse practitioner, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's at 63 years old. Doreen shares her emotional and professional experiences, the frustration of misdiagnoses, and the advice she has for others navigating similar challenges. They also discuss the crucial role physicians and caregivers have in empowering those with dementia.

Tune in to hear real, raw conversations about ways the stigma of Alzheimer's trends younger and how to adjust to find purpose and support along the way.

BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is sponsored by Genentech (gene.com)

Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger

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Learning about an Alzheimer’s diagnosis in your family is never easy. When you are an iconic music legend like Tony Bennet with legions of adoring fans, it is front page news. Antonia and Johanna Bennett, daughters of the late Tony Bennett, candidly discuss their emotional reactions to learning about their father's diagnosis. They share their concern for their father and fears about their own cognitive futures with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer. Hear more about the challenges faced by the family and Tony’s final performances with Lady Gaga. You won’t want to miss this heartfelt episode. 

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Alzheimer’s is not just an aging issue, but a lifelong brain health challenge that has major global, economic, and societal implications. George Vradenburg, Chairman and Founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, who has incubated satellite organizations globally to address these issues, debriefs BrainStorm host Meryl Comer on the recent launch of “Brain House” at the Davos World Economic Forum. Together they explore the potential role of AI in enhancing brain capacity, the fragile state of Alzheimer's research funding, and the business case for diverse representation in clinical trials. You don’t want to miss this leadership episode.

Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger.

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In this episode of BrainStorm host Meryl Comer continues her compelling interview with "Rockstar of Science" Dr. Rudy Tanzi, the pioneering Director of the Genetics and Aging Research Unit and Director of the McCance Center for Brain Health at Mass General Hospital. Dr. Tanzi unveils the secrets of brain health and Alzheimer's research. Exploring his innovative SHIELD framework, Dr. Tanzi offers practical strategies for cognitive wellness, from sleep and stress management to diet and lifelong learning.

The episode takes an innovative turn with AI-generated questions that probe the challenges of Alzheimer's research. Dr. Tanzi provides candid insights into prevention, early intervention, and the future of medical science, sharing an unexpectedly optimistic view of combating cognitive decline. Blending scientific expertise with actionable advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in brain health, aging, and medical innovation.

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Join BrainStorm host Meryl Comer as she kicks off 2025 with "Rockstar of Science" Dr. Rudy Tanzi, the pioneering Director of Genetics and Aging Research and Director of the McCance Center for Brain Health at Mass General Hospital. Dr. Tanzi delves into the new FDA-approved drugs, early cognitive blood tests, and why treating Alzheimer's should mirror our approach to heart disease by focusing on prevention long before symptoms appear. Drawing from his decades of research, Dr. Tanzi shares his vision for the future: a simple daily pill that could prevent Alzheimer's just like statins prevent heart disease. Whether you are concerned about brain health or fascinated by cutting-edge medical science, this episode offers hope and practical wisdom from one of the field's most influential voices. You don’t want to miss it!

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In part 2 of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer and Dr. Rebecca Chopp, former Chancellor of the University of Denver and Dean of Yale Divinity School, delve into maintaining dignity while living with Alzheimer's and dealing with guilt when transitioning loved ones to memory care. Dr. Chopp shares how spirituality and religious practices can help those with dementia, including the role of music and ritual in connecting with memories. The episode also stresses the importance of early conversations about care preferences and advocacy as a way for caregivers to maintain their identity while fighting the disease. Dr. Chopp, author of Still Me: Accepting Alzheimer’s Without Losing Yourself, offers spiritual insights into interacting with loved ones who have Alzheimer's. You don’t want to miss this poignant and informative episode!

Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger

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Spirituality can often be used to provide support to families and caregivers coping with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.  Dr. Rebecca Chopp, former Chancellor of the University of Denver and Dean of Yale Divinity School, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s in 2019,  talks about her spiritual journey with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer. Dr. Chopp shares her personal story of being raised in an agnostic family to becoming a theologian. She explores spirituality and faith while offering insights into acceptance, grief, and maintaining one's sense of self while living with Alzheimer’s disease. Chopp, author of Still Me: Accepting Alzheimer’s Without Losing Yourself, shares how she reshaped her life for a healthy and vibrant approach to finding meaning while living with Alzheimer’s. You don’t want to miss the heartfelt episode!

Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger

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Music and the arts have a positive impact on brain health, mental well-being, and quality of life. Renée Fleming, World Renowned Soprano and Global Arts Health Advocate shares the latest science behind the healing power of music and the brain with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer. 

Fleming’s anthology, Music and Mind: Harnessing the Arts for Health and Wellness, is a collection of essays about the powerful impact of music on health and human experiences, particularly how it plays a critical role to help preserve memory. In part 2 of the interview Fleming discusses the need for greater integration of the arts into the healthcare system and the role AI can play in advancing music related medical research.  You won’t want to miss this conversation highlighting the intersection of art, music, and science.

Support for BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s is provided by Eisai. 

Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger

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