“In life, as we navigate our busy schedules, it’s easy to overlook the needs of others until we find ourselves in need. My sister started her journey down a long, dark road, becoming ever more confused each and every day. She was once a very talented artist and a great communicator, who slowly lost those gifts.
Bill and Patty Nelson
A doctor’s evaluation of advanced dementia sent us all into a tailspin. My wife learned from Jan Collins at the Duck Woods Country Club about the Dementia Friendly Coalition. We discovered that one of their many goals is to relieve caregivers—usually spouses—by offering much-needed days off through a day-room atmosphere where people with dementia can gather for activities.
My wife advises me to keep this short, but the impact this program has had on my sister’s life, ours, and many others’ lives makes that difficult for me to do. So, I want to thank them all for the good work they do and remain a staunch supporter.”
October 2025
“This small gift comes with our heartfelt gratitude for all that you and Dianne along with your team are doing for caregivers and families of victims of dementia. THANK YOU!!! May God richly bless your servant hearts.”
“Thank you so much for what all of you do for these sweet souls. You all have made such a difference in my mother’s life.”
While at the Virginia Tillett Center I noticed an item on the bulletin board concerning help for caregivers of people with dementia. The notice went on to state that each Thursday there was a program available to offer care givers a day out, from 9am to 1pm at the Virginia Tillett Center.
Irma, my mother-in law, moved in with us In 2020, as she was not able to live alone in Florida. We took her everywhere we went. She missed her friends in Florida, and had really no interaction with people outside the family. We discussed with Irma we wanted her to meetings to meet new people.
At first she did not want to attend. In the Spring of 2023 her application was completed to attend. Dianne Denny and volunteers from the Dementia Friendly Coalition made her feel welcome. It did not take many visits for her to become comfortable with the group. She participated in the many activities provided, crafts, music, chair exercises to name some of the activities.
The Thursday meetings were a blessing for us. Irma got to meet new people, and became a favorite participant. She began to look forward to the Thursday sessions. We had the opportunity to have some free time, knowing that she was in good hands with this group.
Irma continued to attend the Thursday meetings until her health failed. She passed away in August of 2025.
After Irmaa passed, I contacted Dianne Denny about volunteering on Thursdays. Since which time I have volunteered on Thursdays with the Dementia Friendly Coalition.
Ronald Gordon
