When Dawne Bunn sat down for Episode 8 of The Coro Chronicles, she brought with her two powerful identities: Regional Vice President of the Alzheimer’s Association and a daughter.

She carries both the science and the story – the encyclopedic understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and the personal truth of what it means to walk alongside someone you love through the long, uncertain hallway of dementia.

The Five Hours That Changed Everything

On Easter Sunday, Dawne’s mother went missing for five hours – alone, frightened, and disoriented, asking strangers for help.
No one reached back.

That day would change everything. It became a moment Dawne has carried into her professional mission – a reminder that Alzheimer’s isn’t just a medical issue. It’s a community responsibility.

Her story is a mirror – one that reflects how any of us might be called to act: as neighbors, tellers, servers, or even strangers on the street. Compassion isn’t something we wait to offer; it’s something we seek out.

From Heartbreak to Hope

Through heartbreak came hope.
Today, Dawne stands at the forefront of progress – sharing updates that give families reason to hold on:

“We now have two FDA-approved treatments for early Alzheimer’s that slow disease progression. These aren’t a cure – but they buy time and memories.”

Diagnosis tools have also evolved. What was once purely clinical now includes PET scans, spinal fluid tests, and an FDA-cleared blood test for people 55+ with symptoms.

This progress is changing lives – and giving caregivers more clarity, sooner.

And when the weight feels too heavy to carry alone, help is just a call away.

“Call 1-800-272-3900. It’s 24/7, in 170 languages, and they’ll even send you a written summary.”

It’s the same Helpline that once guided Dawne through her darkest hours, and continues to serve families across the country today.

A Call to Compassion

“Families don’t have to walk this journey alone.”

That’s Dawne’s message – and her mission.

She reminds us that the heart of care isn’t just in hospitals or research labs; it’s in the everyday kindness of people who choose to see and step toward those who need them most.

If you or someone you love has concerns about memory or dementia, reach out now – earlier is always better for everyone.

Alzheimer’s Association Helpline: 1-800-272-3900
(Available 24/7, in 170+ languages.)

Then, watch Dawne’s full story in Episode 8 of The Coro Chronicles, and share it with someone who might need a hand to hold.