Family’s dedication to Alzheimer’s care, support and research spans two decades

When Stephanie and Don McDonough of Milford organized their first Walk to End Alzheimer’s team, they could not have imagined the impact of their journey. 

Stephanie and Don started their team, Walking for Blanche, in 2002 in memory and honor of Don’s mother, Blanche, when the Walk to End Alzheimer’s as we now know it was called the Memory Walk. Over the years, the couple and their two daughters and son have participated consistently in the Rehoboth Beach Walk to End Alzheimer’s and in other locations when needed. They walked by themselves on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk during the pandemic, when participants were encouraged to “walk anywhere” for their safety, and at the site of their family vacation in North Carolina two years ago. 

The family team, which has been growing and going strong for 23 years, has raised more than $32,000 for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. In past years, Stephanie volunteered with the walk planning committee, and the family organized several fundraising events, including dine-and-donates at local breweries and restaurants, where a portion of proceeds or tips goes to the family’s walk team. 

The motivation to continue is quite simple. “We know this is such an important effort,” said Stephanie. “So many people are impacted by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We need to be out there creating awareness, advocating, raising funds and staying informed.” 

Recently, though, the family tradition has taken on new meaning. Stephanie’s husband Don was diagnosed with advanced Alzheimer’s in March 2025 and sadly passed away in May at age 85.  

Things came full circle, as Don benefited from the research his family has long supported. Part of his medical workup included a new FDA-cleared blood test that helped determine his dementia diagnosis. 

Over these two decades, Stephanie has witnessed the many advancements the Alzheimer’s Association has made in terms of available programs, services and treatments. She is passionate about educating those in her network about the Alzheimer’s Association, its offerings and ways to get involved. “I have three friends whose husbands are in the early stages of dementia,” she said. “I share my experiences with the disease and let them know where to turn for help and hope.” 

This year, Walking for Blanche has become McDonough Marchers for Don and Blanche — a team whose spark has been reignited to not only keep the memories of Blanche and Don alive, but also to help others on the dementia journey.  

To learn more about the Southern Delaware Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit act.alz.org/southerndelaware. For disease information and access to support and resources, call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org/delval.