The Alzheimer’s Association has selected Bradenton resident Deborah (“Deb”) Jobe to serve on its 2021-2022 Alzheimer’s Association National Early-Stage Advisory Group (ESAG). Jobe is one of 10 individuals chosen to serve on the group, which helps raise awareness of Alzheimer’s and other dementia by sharing their personal insights and experiences of living with dementia with media and other audiences across the country.

“Early-stage advisors play a vital role in Alzheimer’s Association advocacy efforts,” said Michelle Branham, Alzheimer’s Association Florida region vice president of public policy. “They bring a unique perspective that not only informs our work, but also inspires others living with the disease to engage in efforts that can make a difference for all those affected.”

Chosen from more than 50 applicants across the country, Jobe was diagnosed with posterior cortical atrophy and mild cognitive impairment in 2019 at the age of 53. At the time, she had been experiencing memory issues for a couple of years, but the diagnosis, she said, still hit her hard. “It was utter devastation,” she recalled. “It was as if your world was suddenly turned upside down and you are floundering, attempting to grasp and process what it means for the future and what to do next.” Jobe now uses her voice to advocate for others. “The Alzheimer’s Association was my saving grace,” she said. “Getting involved and sharing my story in an effort to help others has given me a newfound purpose, and it’s improved my quality of life.”

As a member of the 2021-2022 National Early Stage Advisory Group, Jobe said she hopes to help change the public’s perception of what living with dementia is like and educate people on the benefits of early detection and diagnosis. “Prior to my diagnosis, I thought Alzheimer’s and other dementia only impacted old people,” she said. “Now, I realize there are many different faces and stages of the disease. But the one thing we all have in common is that we are human and deserve to be treated with respect. I intend to use my voice for as long as I can to help educate people about dementia and the challenges it brings.”