This fall, I chose to dedicate my Henrik Lundqvist Foundation Young Ambassador Individual Service Project to something deeply personal: the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. My project was inspired by my grandfather, who bravely battled dementia in his final years. Watching someone you love slowly fade, forgetting the people and moments that once filled their world, is a pain that never truly leaves you. This walk became my way of keeping his memory alive, of turning heartbreak into hope.
At first, my goal was simple: to participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s with my family. But what began as one event grew into something so much bigger. I designed and sold custom shirts and hoodies, rallied the Plainview-Old Bethpage community, and raised over $7,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association. Each donation felt like a piece of my grandfather’s story being carried forward, a reminder that love doesn’t fade, even when memories do.
Just as I thought my project was ending, I was introduced to Jay Asparro, who runs the 100 Miles of Hope for Caregivers in honor of his grandmother. His dedication moved me deeply, and I knew I wanted to help. I decided to join forces to sell merchandise, snacks, and raffles at the event, raising another $1,500 for the Long Island Alzheimer’s & Dementia Center (LIAD), contributing to Jay’s incredible $15,000 total.
This project taught me that loss can become legacy. What started as a tribute to one person became a movement of compassion, strength, and community. Being featured on News 12 Long Island was an unforgettable reminder that even through grief, we can build something meaningful, something that brings light to others still walking through the dark.
Even after my time as a Young Ambassador comes to an end, I plan to continue this fight for the rest of the year, and beyond, because honoring my grandfather’s memory and supporting those affected by Alzheimer’s has become a lifelong mission for me. Every step I take in this fight is for him. 💜
Written by HLFYA Savina Alagna
