About MDE
My Dementia Experience was born out of the firsthand journey I have with caring for my mother, who was diagnosed with dementia in January 2022. As I sat in the doctor's office, listening to the diagnosis, a heavy weight settled in my chest. In real talk, it felt like a drop kick to my stomach. My mother, the woman who had always been strong and independent, who practically single handedly raised 7 kids, now faced an uncertain future as she was diagnosed with dementia. It was a difficult pill to swallow, especially since this was my first personal experience with a loved one having this disease. When we got back to the car, there was silence for easily 10 minutes. My mother looked worried and I had the biggest lump in my throat and holding back the tears that were forming in my eyes. No, I told myself, I cannot break down now. My mother, Ms. Independent, was now in need. It was this moment that made me realize that I had to be strong for her. I cannot let her know that I was scared as well. I had to take the lead. It was this moment that I "Officially" took over as the "Parent".
This journey has made me realized that there is a need for education, resources and support, especially in the African American community. It has awaken a deep passion inside of me, to raise awareness and provide support for those impacted by dementia, particularly in Our Community.
My Mission
My Vision
My Tribute
π Let's take a moment to honor an extraordinary woman who embodies resilience, courage, and unwavering determination. πΉβ¨
Letβs raise a toast as we celebrate the legendary Loretta Brown, my loving mother; her vision ignited our horizons, her bravery became our beacon, and her unwavering commitment to success etched a legacy.
Loretta, the Trailblazer, the Pioneer, and the Queen of the Brown family, stands as a beacon of inspiration for us all. Her journey from Kingston, Jamaica, to Philadelphia, PA, nearly six decades ago was not merely a relocation; it was a bold leap of faith fueled by her unshakeable belief in God's guidance and her boundless love for her family.
My Tribute - Continue
With only a carry-on bag and a heart full of hope, Loretta embarked on a remarkable odyssey, leaving behind her beloved husband and seven children to chase new horizons and forge a brighter future. Despite facing countless challenges and working 2, 3 and even 4 jobs, Loretta's spirit remained unbroken as she pursued her dream of reuniting her family in America. Loretta animated her dream driven by her fierce love for her children, sacrificing rest and comfort. She was determined to succeed, and nothing was going to stand in her way.
In a journey of seven years that seemed almost a lifetime, she achieved the incredible feat of bringing all her seven children to America. Her greatest accomplishment, she often says, lies not in her professional achievements, but in the unity and resilience of her family and raising them all to be successful, law-abiding citizens.
My Tribute - Continue
As a single mother, Loretta's dedication knew no bounds. She toiled tirelessly to provide for her children, instilling in them a deep reverence for education and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her unwavering mantra, "Education is the key to success," echoed throughout the household, inspiring her children to soar to new heights academically and professionally. She frequently instilled in her children the belief that they would receive a quality education, thus sparing them from the level of effort she had to exert in her own work and would not have to endure the harsh work and trials she faced.
Loretta's legacy extends far beyond her immediate family, encompassing a vast network of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all beneficiaries of her wisdom and guidance. Her influence reverberated across generations, inspiring her 21 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. Today she sits at the helm of a thriving family tree of more than 50 members, boasting doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, nurses, teachers, business executives, military veterans, and hard-working professionals making meaningful contributions to society.
My Tribute - Conclusion
In 1967, when Loretta embarked on her journey with God guiding her path and carrying just a carry-on bag, she couldn't have envisioned the spectacular legacy she would carve. Yet, her relentless faith, persistent optimism, and determination to give her children the best life became her guiding light.
As we reflect on Loretta's extraordinary journey this International Women's History Month, let's raise our hands in heartfelt tribute to this Jamaican visionary. Her indomitable spirit, boundless love, and unwavering commitment to her family have left an indelible mark on our community and serve as a shining example of what is possible when faith, determination, and love intersect.
Here's to you, Loretta Brown - a true inspiration and a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and profound love. ππ #Inspiration #WomenEmpowerment #LorettaBrown #LegacyOfLove