Alzheimer's Jamaica located in Kingston, Jamaica is pleased to support the children's and family book, Grandma, Don't Forget How Much I Love You, by Linda A. Gerdner and Jacqueline A. Witter. Alzheimer's is an insidious disease that results in behavioral changes and memory loss, leaving families heartbroken, with a lack of understanding for the reason their family member does not remember them.

This story reveals a child's response to the changes she is seeing in her Grandmother Ruby. Too often we do not address the devastating effect this may have on a child. I applaud Linda and Jacqueline for shining light on Alzheimer's disease through the eyes of a child.

Dundeen Ferguson

Founder and Executive Director of Alzheimer's Jamaica

My Jamaican heritage has been an instrumental part of my identity. Growing up in the household of my grandma I was influenced by her wisdom, tender heart and generous spirit. I remember the wonderful smells from her kitchen, the jangle of her beads and the vibrant colors of her outfits and makeup. I loved how the characters in this book shared so many sensory connections. It helped ground the story and connected me to my own memories with my grandmother. This book reminds me of our later years together where I cherished our final memories and noted all her parables of wisdom as she was diagnosed with dementia.

As an educator I am also encouraged by the messages of resilience and family love that will connect to many of my students and their families. The story brings a vibrant energy to a touching story, sharing connections across the senses to the Jamaican culture and an intergenerational love between grandchild and grandmother. Stories such as this are important to the children's literacy canon as they tell an authentic story of family and love, and the all too familiar story of Alzheimer's that crosses all cultures.

All children will benefit from this story of family and learn about Jamaican culture.

Erin K. Hylton-Dodson

Kindergarten Teacher and Grade Chairperson

This beautifully told and illustrated story grounded in evidence-based research and practice, but is practical, informative and culturally sensitive. It accurately explores the symptoms, vulnerabilities, stigma, stresses and misperceptions associated with dementia and the intergenerational impact they can have on family. The critical role of family support and understanding is highlighted, illustrating how love and happiness can endure even in the face of a challenging diagnosis like dementia. I highly recommend this book.

Katherine C. Buckwalter, PhD, RN, FAAN

Professor and Interim Dean Emerita

University of Iowa College of Nursing

Distinguished Professor of Aging Research

D.W. Reynolds Center for Geriatric Nursing Excellence

Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, College of Nursing