Skip to main content
Clear icon
31º

Breaking age barriers: youth join Alzheimer’s fight

17-Year-Old Dylan Shaver will go before the General Assembly Thursday for Alzheimer’s Advocacy

ROANOKE, VA – Margie Shaver has faced the heartbreak of Alzheimer’s more than anyone should.

“My mom, my grandma and three aunts all had Alzheimer’s,” Margie said.

For years, Margie has been a dedicated advocate, speaking to lawmakers and pushing for more research and funding. But now, she’s not alone.

“I couldn’t be more proud of Dylan. I was proud of Dylan a long time ago, but I’ll be bursting with pride tomorrow,” Margie said.

Dylan is Margie’s grandson. He’s only 17 but has already seen the hold this disease has over people.

“I have a neighbor who has it, and he helped us out when we were a lot younger. Now having to help him with stuff, it’s a little difficult and sometimes a challenge,” Dylan said.

Whether it’s a neighbor or a family member - Margie tells 10 News the effects are widespread.

“He’s watching what’s happening to him and it’s very hurtful to him. So, he’s seeing firsthand, not just an aged grandparent or something like that. How this can be for everybody, whether you’re 17 years old or 75 years old,” Margie said.

Dylan isn’t even old enough to vote - but Thursday he’ll stand with Margie, and nearly 100 other advocates, in front of Virginia’s lawmakers.

“Young people, we are the generation of technology. I feel like we are the generation that should be able to push through and get a resolution for this disease,” Dylan said.

Margie says she wants lawmakers to know that losing someone to Alzheimer’s often means you’re losing them twice - once when they’re diagnosed, and again when they pass away.

It’s the reality she faced, often having to reintroduce herself to her mom.

“She looked at me and said, ‘I think I should know you,’” Margie said.

Dylan says he’s proud to stand beside his grandma and pave the way for a new generation of advocates.

“Now’s the perfect time for that,” he said.


About the Author
Abbie Coleman headshot

Abbie Coleman officially joined the WSLS 10 News team in January 2023.