The Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative (AAQI)
Raising Awareness & Funding Research Through Art
Questions? Email us or call: (810) 637-5586 --- 
Comments About The Exhibit
These are comments from people who saw "Alzheimer's Illustrated: From Heartbreak to Hope," the Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative's second traveling quilt exhibit.
They were transcribed by AAQI volunteer Daphne Stewart.
Please consider bringing "Alzheimer's Illustrated: From Heartbreak to Hope" to your community. Details are here.
Your donations help the Alzheimer's Art Quit Initiative raise awareness and fund research through art. Because we are all volunteers, our expenses are very low so that most of the money we raise goes to fund Alzheimer's research.
Very powerful and moving exhibit. I love the names banners. Maybe the exhibits or stories could be published and the funds could go to research, too.
Wouldn’t it be nice to have a book to preserve the stories of the quilts — or posters to hang.
I walked alone yet felt my Mother’s presence in every name and quilt. She died at 95 years (2006) and we shared so much and yet so little.
Rose Bartholomew
Richardson, TX
So meaningful yet so creative. Thank you to each quilter. I was touched.
Rosalee Weiler
Grapevine, TX
The exhibit stirred deepest compassion and tolerance for the victims of Alzheimer’s, their families, and caregivers.
Frances Jennings
Beaver Dam, WI
I was almost in tears as I am living this life. I was a caretaker of my friend of 30 years. She is now in assisted living. I am devastated every time I see more progression robbing of her by Alzheimer’s. The moments of her lucidity are moments for rejoicing.
Helen M. Beggane
Duncanville, TX
The stories with the quilts are remarkable and I can relate to most of them. My husband had Alzheimer’s before he died.
Very powerful and sad. A wonderful idea.
Richmond, VA
My mother had Alzheimer’s so I lived it with her.
Mary
Bowie, MD
Saw my father’s name that I had submitted on line. Brought tears to my eyes. Beautiful and very powerful.
A beautiful and moving exhibit. It brought memories of my father and made me cry.
Awesome and emotionally choking.
I learned a lot about the disease — via the little quilts — very good. Thank you.
Please make a book of these beautiful quilts and stories! My father passed away 10 years ago from Alzheimer’s and these so capture all aspects of this disease.
So powerful! We are not alone caring for our loved ones.
Great exhibit — very moving —
The stories on the small quilts: they break my heart.
Beautiful — my 84-year-old mother has Alzheimer’s. Very touching.
My mom has Alzheimer’s and I see her in several of the little quilts here. It is always a privilege to share the stories and the wealth of expression these quilts represent.
Helen Marie Marshall
Fort Washington, PA
Very heart wrenching. Brought tears to my eyes and a lump in my throat. My sister has dementia and I see her fading away. So-o-o sad. The variation of art quilts to capture the feelings is fabulous!
Gretchen Kemmer
Greenville, NC
Thank you. My mother is 93 and in a nursing home with Alzheimer’s. It’s helpful to know that I’m not alone in my struggle as I face this day after day. Thank you for this exhibit and reminder that we all have to remember to fight for a cure.
Thank you, Ami, for all of your wonderful, loving works. My friend Dot passed away three weeks ago after a five-year battle. She’s free now.
Mary Williams
First time quilts have brought tears to my eyes —
Very inspiring.
Great reminder that people are not difficult because they want to be.
Amazing and heartbreaking.
Ann W
Hampton, VA
I’m very touched. Thank you for this wonderful exhibit. Because I am a physical therapist who works with older adults, I know the disease too well. Because I teach physical therapy students about working with older adults with dementia, I struggle to accomplish what the texts accompanying the small quilts are able to accomplish — to teach both implicitly at the feeling or “gut” level as well as explicitly, sharing practical information about AD and how to help persons with AD. THANK YOU for this inspiration!!!
Leslie Allison
East Carolina University
Great information for all the gals — really enthused about all they do!!
Marjie Gorman
Bristol, NH
Awesome!! Keep up the great work.
Broke my heart. Wonderful exhibit.
The quilts and stories have great impact. Lost my mother to Alzheimer’s.
I was lost in it. I spilled a few tears and found myself saying, “Oh, my!” quite often. How extraordinary.
Helen
I wish I had more time to spend here. But it’s off to work. So proud BMQG had this national show! Thank you!
Absolutely gorgeous and a very touching remembrance.
So very moving. Seems everyone has a story to share. Thank you for listening.
Thank you for your wonderful efforts. My mother Sylvia is an Alzheimer’s patient. This is such a wonderful tribute — God bless you all.
Maria Cross
Braintree, MA
Thank you for having my mother’s name on your quilt. It is a good feeling to keep her memory alive.
Ann Markunas
What a way to capture the heart of the disease.
Sally
Laconia, NH
This is a wonderful exhibit and so informative about the progression of the disease. Thank you for bringing this to our community.
Linda
Gilford, NH
Very moving and emotional experience — Thank you.
Whitman, MA
Very moving! Thank you for such a wonderful exhibit.
J. Lauder
Warner, NH
A wonderful exhibit, moving.
Nancy
Laconia
This is a wonderful tribute. Thank you.
Pat
This is truly a work of love. Thank you.
Jean
A very ‘real’ compilation of the thoughts and feelings of the ‘victim’ and the caretaker. Very moving.
David
Awesome exhibit. It was so emotional!
Cathy
Laconia, NH
This was a very compelling exhibit. My Dad died of Alzheimer’s and many of the quilts illustrated many aspects of our experience. I especially related to the one about music/song being remembered after all else was gone.
Diane Beaman
So moving. What a wonderful way to use quilts to help people understand a devastating disease.
Very overwhelming what people have gone through with their loved ones. Touching stories with breathtaking and emotional stories with quilts.
Rebeka Morse
Alton Bay, NH
I brought my Mom with me to her first quilt show — simply wonderful and moving — I will cherish every moment from this day on.
Sheila Becks
Woodstock, CT
I have just loved spending the day with the exhibit. People have shared their stories with us all day!
Michelle
Amazing and overwhelming at the same time.
Cassie
Thank you so much. A chance to learn of the heart wrenching need for research in all aspects of Alzheimer’s.
Very informative and thought-provoking. Interesting panel quilts.
Overwhelming — clearly indicates the need for continued research. Thank you for allowing us to have this show.
Sandy M
Wonderful exhibit! I understand more now.
Great exhibit! Very emotional.
Thank you!
Wow. This is heart-wrenching — we lost one aunt to this disease, and are losing my father.
Judy Van Schoyck
Oxford, WI
A powerful and touching display. Thank you.
Donna K
Illinois
I enjoyed working the exhibit! (my sister is your twin)
Mary
What a beautiful tribute to the victims of Alzheimer’s and a labor of love from the people who contributed to the tribute. Thank you.
Penny
I came just to see this quilt. It is amazing. As someone that works with Alzheimer’s and having family with the disease, thank you.
Cassie G
Oregon, WI
I was so moved by these mini-quilts and their messages. I’ve watched my mom and mom-in-law go through this. I couldn’t believe how this display was able to stir those old bittersweet memories.
Janna F
Houghton, MI
The quilt is very moving and beautiful. The smaller quilts were great!!! It reminded me of my husband’s grandmother.
Jonnie Egleston
Beloit, WI
Please email me with how to get a “strip” of fabric to put my father’s name on. Thank you.
Deb Z
Seeing all the names, made me remember that all these people are someone's “someone”! I love the hippo campus reminder. Will be praying for all families.
My father died last year from this terrible disease. I was so grateful when he passed that I hardly cried at all. Today looking at your quilts I couldn't stop crying. They are very moving. Thank you for the Kleenex.
What a wonderful idea. I wish I could have added my grandmother's name. She had dementia and I miss her terribly.
Lost my mom on Good Friday after 10 years of AD — finally she knows us and remembers.
Wonderful! My mother had Alzheimer's, but in the end, she was truly “care-free” and smiled at us all! ♥
Lost two family members and a cousin is currently dealing with this — keep up the great work, Ami!
Anna
Illinois
Very hard for me to see this but it's wonderful. My husband is suffering from this horrible disease. Thank you.
I can't say how much this exhibit touched me! What a wonderful way to remember and raise awareness for those touched by Alzheimer's and their families. Both my mother and mother-in-law suffered this disease, living well into their 90's.
Amazing! My father-in-law had Alzheimer's. Any attention to this plague is so appreciated.
This is a great idea! My grandmother died with Alzheimer's. Keep up the good work!
What a wonderfully powerful exhibit. Each of us knows someone struggling with this insidious disease. Thank you for this!
Sara Rehring
Very nice exhibit. Truly worthwhile.
Excellent display of a very emotional disease. The person it happens to and the family who prays some day for a cure. Thank you.
Deanna Luther
Wonderful display — riveting and emotional.
Joyce Hach
Middleton, WI
This is a powerful teaching tool that deeply touches each observer. The honesty and love so beautifully expressed moved me to tears repeatedly. I have been changed and enriched by this marvelous exhibit.
Amazing! I was so touched! Made the whole Expo worth the time —
Denise Fowler Panter
Knoxville, TN
I have had the privilege of working some with Alzheimer’s patients — seeing the amount of names here is staggering. God bless their hearts — heaven will be full of them!
J. Roth Franklin
West Virginia
My dad has Alzheimer’s. He still remembers our core family but grandchildren — no. It is sad he doesn’t do any of the activities he used to, and repetition in conversation is all that’s left.
My mother has this horrible disease, but she lives with it with such grace. She, in an advanced stage, still will pray and say thank you and start singing a line of a hymn or a nursery rhyme she sang to her babies. She still loves even when she doesn’t know whom she is loving.
Have many friends with this. I was lucky to purchase a quilt in Houston — I pray for them every day.
Hard to read the words by each small quilt … Made me think of what one of my favorite aunts just went through (and her family). She was cared for at home till the day she passed,
C. Ryan
Dalton, GA
Forever in my heart ♥ ♥ Donnie and Pearl. My loving, faithful husband passed so quickly. This is amazing. It brought tears of joy and so much appreciation now at his care.
P. Masser
Powell, TN
My mother has late stage Alzheimer’s. I found this exhibit very moving and exact.
Bonnie Holmes
Friendsville, TN
My dad died a year ago from this terrible disease. My mother did an amazing job taking care of him until his death. He was 90 years old. She is 80. This is an amazing tribute to the patient, caregiver, and family. Thank you.
G Cochrum
Knoxville, TN
Best part of the quilt show!
Kay Meredith
Knoxville, TN
Just lost a wonderful woman, Christine, this morning in Chapel Hill, NC.
Laura Lloyd
Chapel Hill, NC
My Mom passed away in March, 2011. This is the best healing for me and my sisters.
This exhibit has made me more aware of the heartbreak of Alzheimer’s. Painfully aware is a more true statement.
Patricia Vaughn
Maryville, TN
Very touching!
Margaret Kiern
Franklin, TN
Amazing exhibit! Thank you for lifting up the awareness.
Bonnie Barthelemy
Murfreesboro, TN
Until we meet again, Dad. I love you!
Dana Hogan
Loudon, TN
Very moving. So expressive.
Jan Darnell
Knoxville, TN
Extremely moving and so important to learn what I have ahead of me with my dear husband. Slowly he walks away, farther every day.
As I view these quilts I think of my beloved sister-in-law, Toyoko. As my brother said, “She just evaporated.”
Jane Brown
Cullowhee, NC
My sister was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2008 and she is already in the last stage. She is only 65. This is a wonderful thing you are doing.
Touching, good idea, amazing.
Rose Hedges
Knoxville, TN
Incredible. Helps mourn my grandfather’s loss to this disease.
Diane Early
Charlotte, NC
Wonderful, touching, sad, happy, purple — my mother-in-law. Thank you, Ami! The exhibit is stunning. You should allow photography.
What can I say. I’m in tears. Know too many people affected over the years! Lovely display.
D Stecker
Exceptional and moving. I cried. Thanks.
You captured the essence of the impact of Alzheimer’s on the individual and family through this artistic rendering. What a beautiful memorial to beautiful people!
Very moving quilts/stories. Will teach people what they don’t know.
Carol
Knoxville, TN
What a beautiful way to educate people about this debilitating disease — the words were touching and memorable.
Donna
Arden, NC
I am profoundly moved by your exhibit and vision. You evoke through art the often slow loss of a loved one’s mental faculties and the physical shell that remains. For me, this was my mother-in-law’s demise in the first 11 years of my marriage. Yours is a powerful tribute to the loss of many.
This exhibit moved me very much! I lost “Mother” on January 1, 2011 — age 94 years. She used to love to come with me to this Quilt Show!
I have tried twice to walk through this exhibit. I am moved to tears and have to walk away to compose myself. My Daddy is in early stages and it breaks my heart. Thanks for bringing this exhibit to this show. The loss to so many is heartbreaking.
J. Funderburk
North Carolina
Very moving, touches places very deep in my heart. Thank you for featuring this exhibit.
C Cross
Tennessee
This beautiful exhibit is so touching. My dad knows who we are and is always glad to see us but he can’t remember where to find the dishes to set the table for dinner. He can’t remember the thing he did yesterday or this morning. I love him so.
This is remarkable, and such a good way for the survivors to express their feeling. It must be very good for their soul.
R.S. Shovlin
FFC, TN
I’m speechless!! So many folks hurting from this horror. What a wonderful memorial!
Carol Roberts
Dandridge, TN
This is a very moving display honoring those who have fought the fight of the frightening disease of Alzheimer’s. My mom and mother-in-law both had it and it’s just a dreadful disease and frustrating for them and the ones who care for them.
Brenda Mitchell
Sheffield, AL
I am beginning to see the signs in my husband at age 63. It is hard for him to see those same symptoms. I hate the anger that ensues when he doesn’t remember. Alzheimer’s robs not only your loved family member of reason but yourself also. The tragedy includes everyone around you.
Great exhibit — emotions and thoughts exhibited are common threads when family member has Alzheimer’s.
Awesome exhibit! I’ve gone through so many of the same experiences as my mom passed a couple of years ago from this horrible disease — Hope we will find a cure very soon!
Fran
Kodak, TN
Thank you so much — so much excellent advice delivered so tenderly. Everyone should have a chance to be educated by these masterpieces.
Diane Ramsay
Westfield, MA
So beautiful and moving and I shed so many tears! Such a sad disease.
Amazing! Artistic — moving — can’t find good enough words to describe.
Beautiful — moving — wonderful exhibit.
I lost both of my grandmothers to Alzheimer’s/dementia within 10 days of each other this past July. This exhibit is beautiful and illustrates so many of the experiences my grandmothers, my family, and I have had with this disease.
Sarah Stafford
Springs, CT
Thank you to all the contributors for remembering. As a music therapist, I know that music is a powerful tool to help Alzheimer’s patients.
I facilitate a caregiver support group for families, friends, and individuals who suffer. 75% of attendees care for or suffer with dementia related conditions. This exhibit is sadly and warmly familiar. Beautiful work. Thank you!
Thank you for caring and remembering.
Profound.
Made me cry remembering my mother — she would be 108 March 28 —she died at age 91 after several years of being lost to Alzheimer’s. Lost her twice!
Adele Levine
Powerful. God bless.
Inspirational!
Very moving, brought tears to my eyes. Beautiful presentation. Thank you.
Karen
Springfield, MA
A wonderful exhibit — very moving.
L. Scranton
Springfield, MA
A very moving exhibit — while it worked to stir my emotions, especially having a family member dealing with this tragic disease, it was a good sadness.
Mary
Southampton, MA
Many are singular — ‘Memory Walk’ [by Susan “Smitty” Price] was exceptional.
All of these mini quilts touched me deeply!
Amity Giard
Beautiful piece! Thank you for all the people who shared their stories.
Moving, informative, heartbreaking, inspiring!
What a wonderful statement of caring.
Pat Pauly
Thank you for all you are doing.
Sara Fredette
Profound and evocative. Thank you.
So difficult to comprehend, but so important to understand. Thank you, Ami, for all you do!
Very emotional and amazing, so many names.
Profound — important to see. Thank everyone who shared their personal experiences.
So wonderful and so sad. Thank you, Ami!
What a tribute — beautiful.
Wonderful, emotional, overwhelming show — It reminds me of the Vietnam wall in Washington, D.C.
Susan Hayes
St Agawam, MA
A lovely and very moving exhibit.
Amazing — Touching — Wow.
This is awe inspiring — the numbers are staggering.
I was so moved to view this solemn exhibit. I saw tears and hugs as we read the notes. Thank you for your commitment to our loved ones dealing with Alzheimer’s.
Very informative and moving. Hope it helps find a cure.
Irene Clark
Belchertown, MA
A powerful, wonderful exhibit. The first exhibit made me cry — I had to stop looking. This one is just as moving, but better, in my opinion. Thanks!
Extremely moving to see my own powerful experiences reflected back to me by others. Metaphor and color and texture can communicate better than only words. Thank you.
Profound exhibit. Quite moving. I work in healthcare with children, yet see the commitment and dedication of families every day and know that there are also so many wonderful, caring family members caring for their loved ones with Alzheimer’s.
Extremely moving exhibit. I have been a caregiver for 15 years to many family members. The last two had dementia. The talk was excellent. Ami is to be commended for her caregiving. Thank you!
SJS
Stunning! Very emotional for me walking through. Thank you to all.
Jan
Guilford, Vermont
More powerful than words can really say — it was an honor to see and read your journeys. Thank you for that —
Liz
Absolutely beautiful, so thoughtful. I’d be glad to help by making some of the small quilted hangings.
Beautiful but hard to look at. My Mom just died from complications from Alzheimer’s and younger sister-in-law was diagnosed in her 50’s.
Jean C. Miller
Springfield, MA
How moving. Remembering friends and loved ones. For Alliette Fitzgerald and Mae Hartzell Drew.
Linda Fitzgerald
Springfield, MA
Thank you!
Diane DeHippolytis
This is just unbelievable — the small quilts and stories are so beautiful. It made me take a moment to pray for a cure.
Debby Whidden
Belchertown, MA
Thank you so much … it was moving.
Marcella and Beverly Jackson
Belchertown, MA
Beautiful and thoughtful. Thank you.
East Hartford, CT
Excellent exhibit.
This exhibit really shows the far-reaching affects of Alzheimer’s. Beautifully done.
Lara Kline
Springfield, MA
This exhibit is so helpful and educational. A fantastic learning tool and presented with great dignity. Thank you.
Kimberly Lambert
Northampton, MA
Great exhibit — thank you!
What an incredible display of emotion expressed by superbly fashioned quilts! Thanks to all —
Nancy Kalin
Florence, MA
Bring tissue. The individual quilts and the stories make us know we are not alone. Thanks.
Tina Tyler
Turners Falls, MA
Moving exhibit. Yes, you need to get this out to public view. Thank you for all your hard work in making this happen.
Julie Amherst
Wow! What an awesome exhibit! At a loss for words!
Michelle Plourcle
Very moving exhibit. The names quilts are amazing. I first saw an Alzheimer’s exhibit at Vermont Quilt Festival.
It’s overwhelming — such an incredible amount of work and love this represents!
Marion Kennedy
Orleans, MA
Beautiful representation of all the emotions we have dealing with this disease.
Susan Laford
Bernardston, MA
An extraordinary exhibit. Thank you.
So special. Saw the display 2 years ago. Just as impressive and moving now. How wonderful a tribute.
Beautiful show — brought me to tears …
So inspiring.
I was so moved! Beautiful and sad!
It’s beautiful. One of them reminded me of my mother.
The simplicity and directness of this display only enhances its moving power. The little quilts are all powerful but especially the ones depicting loss. Very impressive.
Katie George
This exhibit is truly a beautiful and “overwhelming” tribute to “all” the victims and families who are touched by the cruel hand of this disease.
Wow! An amazing, informative, moving, gorgeous, incredible exhibit! Thank you.
A very beautiful and moving tribute to our loved ones with this disease. I remember my husband’s mother fondly viewing these awesome works of art.
I am so moved! Being born a care provider (Mother with vascular dementia) plus RN/NP who trains people regarding dementia, this hit so many chords with me. Thank you so much!
Awesome display of reality done very artistically. Great job!
Awesome.
Amy W.
Pelham, MA
Ami, thank you for all you have done to make more people aware of this disease. Mini quilt coming.
Patty B
Creative, thoughtful, touching; a reminder to be aware and to be more compassionate … you could be there one day.
Cindy Watson
Granby, MA
Most impressive — beautifully displayed with much reflection and reverence for each individual.
Cathy Alsims
A powerful and evocative exhibit.
Thoughtful, tearful color-memories of loss and gains from disease. Well presented.
This quilt exhibit reminded me of the AIDS quilts I saw in 1986 on the mall in Washington, D.C. This show is as powerful! I’m moved to tears and fears! Thank you.
Powerful and moving! Thank you.
Incredibly powerful! And touching and inspiring. Thank you for all the work —
Beyond words — so moving, sad and yet so inspirational. Thank you.
Number 44 [“Memory Walk” by Susan “Smitty” Price] moved me to tears.
A beautifully presented show, very moving. These quilts should travel widely.
Thank you for sharing them though they are emotionally trying.
Thank you — beautiful, moving, emotional.
Donna
Williamsburg, MA
They were transcribed by AAQI volunteer Daphne Stewart.
Please consider bringing "Alzheimer's Illustrated: From Heartbreak to Hope" to your community. Details are here.
Your donations help the Alzheimer's Art Quit Initiative raise awareness and fund research through art. Because we are all volunteers, our expenses are very low so that most of the money we raise goes to fund Alzheimer's research.
Quilters Guild of Dallas
Dallas, TX
March 9-11, 2012
Very powerful and moving exhibit. I love the names banners. Maybe the exhibits or stories could be published and the funds could go to research, too.
Wouldn’t it be nice to have a book to preserve the stories of the quilts — or posters to hang.
I walked alone yet felt my Mother’s presence in every name and quilt. She died at 95 years (2006) and we shared so much and yet so little.
Rose Bartholomew
Richardson, TX
So meaningful yet so creative. Thank you to each quilter. I was touched.
Rosalee Weiler
Grapevine, TX
The exhibit stirred deepest compassion and tolerance for the victims of Alzheimer’s, their families, and caregivers.
Frances Jennings
Beaver Dam, WI
I was almost in tears as I am living this life. I was a caretaker of my friend of 30 years. She is now in assisted living. I am devastated every time I see more progression robbing of her by Alzheimer’s. The moments of her lucidity are moments for rejoicing.
Helen M. Beggane
Duncanville, TX
The stories with the quilts are remarkable and I can relate to most of them. My husband had Alzheimer’s before he died.
Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival
Hampton, VA
February 22-26, 2012
Very powerful and sad. A wonderful idea.
Richmond, VA
My mother had Alzheimer’s so I lived it with her.
Mary
Bowie, MD
Saw my father’s name that I had submitted on line. Brought tears to my eyes. Beautiful and very powerful.
A beautiful and moving exhibit. It brought memories of my father and made me cry.
Awesome and emotionally choking.
I learned a lot about the disease — via the little quilts — very good. Thank you.
Please make a book of these beautiful quilts and stories! My father passed away 10 years ago from Alzheimer’s and these so capture all aspects of this disease.
So powerful! We are not alone caring for our loved ones.
Great exhibit — very moving —
The stories on the small quilts: they break my heart.
Beautiful — my 84-year-old mother has Alzheimer’s. Very touching.
My mom has Alzheimer’s and I see her in several of the little quilts here. It is always a privilege to share the stories and the wealth of expression these quilts represent.
Helen Marie Marshall
Fort Washington, PA
Very heart wrenching. Brought tears to my eyes and a lump in my throat. My sister has dementia and I see her fading away. So-o-o sad. The variation of art quilts to capture the feelings is fabulous!
Gretchen Kemmer
Greenville, NC
Thank you. My mother is 93 and in a nursing home with Alzheimer’s. It’s helpful to know that I’m not alone in my struggle as I face this day after day. Thank you for this exhibit and reminder that we all have to remember to fight for a cure.
Thank you, Ami, for all of your wonderful, loving works. My friend Dot passed away three weeks ago after a five-year battle. She’s free now.
Mary Williams
First time quilts have brought tears to my eyes —
Very inspiring.
Great reminder that people are not difficult because they want to be.
Amazing and heartbreaking.
Ann W
Hampton, VA
I’m very touched. Thank you for this wonderful exhibit. Because I am a physical therapist who works with older adults, I know the disease too well. Because I teach physical therapy students about working with older adults with dementia, I struggle to accomplish what the texts accompanying the small quilts are able to accomplish — to teach both implicitly at the feeling or “gut” level as well as explicitly, sharing practical information about AD and how to help persons with AD. THANK YOU for this inspiration!!!
Leslie Allison
East Carolina University
Great information for all the gals — really enthused about all they do!!
Quilt Expo
Laconia, NH
October 1-2, 2011
Marjie Gorman
Bristol, NH
Awesome!! Keep up the great work.
Broke my heart. Wonderful exhibit.
The quilts and stories have great impact. Lost my mother to Alzheimer’s.
I was lost in it. I spilled a few tears and found myself saying, “Oh, my!” quite often. How extraordinary.
Helen
I wish I had more time to spend here. But it’s off to work. So proud BMQG had this national show! Thank you!
Absolutely gorgeous and a very touching remembrance.
So very moving. Seems everyone has a story to share. Thank you for listening.
Thank you for your wonderful efforts. My mother Sylvia is an Alzheimer’s patient. This is such a wonderful tribute — God bless you all.
Maria Cross
Braintree, MA
Thank you for having my mother’s name on your quilt. It is a good feeling to keep her memory alive.
Ann Markunas
What a way to capture the heart of the disease.
Sally
Laconia, NH
This is a wonderful exhibit and so informative about the progression of the disease. Thank you for bringing this to our community.
Linda
Gilford, NH
Very moving and emotional experience — Thank you.
Whitman, MA
Very moving! Thank you for such a wonderful exhibit.
J. Lauder
Warner, NH
A wonderful exhibit, moving.
Nancy
Laconia
This is a wonderful tribute. Thank you.
Pat
This is truly a work of love. Thank you.
Jean
A very ‘real’ compilation of the thoughts and feelings of the ‘victim’ and the caretaker. Very moving.
David
Awesome exhibit. It was so emotional!
Cathy
Laconia, NH
This was a very compelling exhibit. My Dad died of Alzheimer’s and many of the quilts illustrated many aspects of our experience. I especially related to the one about music/song being remembered after all else was gone.
Diane Beaman
So moving. What a wonderful way to use quilts to help people understand a devastating disease.
Very overwhelming what people have gone through with their loved ones. Touching stories with breathtaking and emotional stories with quilts.
Rebeka Morse
Alton Bay, NH
I brought my Mom with me to her first quilt show — simply wonderful and moving — I will cherish every moment from this day on.
Sheila Becks
Woodstock, CT
I have just loved spending the day with the exhibit. People have shared their stories with us all day!
Michelle
Amazing and overwhelming at the same time.
Cassie
Thank you so much. A chance to learn of the heart wrenching need for research in all aspects of Alzheimer’s.
Very informative and thought-provoking. Interesting panel quilts.
Overwhelming — clearly indicates the need for continued research. Thank you for allowing us to have this show.
Sandy M
Quilt Expo
Madison, WI
September 8-10, 2011
Wonderful exhibit! I understand more now.
Great exhibit! Very emotional.
Thank you!
Wow. This is heart-wrenching — we lost one aunt to this disease, and are losing my father.
Judy Van Schoyck
Oxford, WI
A powerful and touching display. Thank you.
Donna K
Illinois
I enjoyed working the exhibit! (my sister is your twin)
Mary
What a beautiful tribute to the victims of Alzheimer’s and a labor of love from the people who contributed to the tribute. Thank you.
Penny
I came just to see this quilt. It is amazing. As someone that works with Alzheimer’s and having family with the disease, thank you.
Cassie G
Oregon, WI
I was so moved by these mini-quilts and their messages. I’ve watched my mom and mom-in-law go through this. I couldn’t believe how this display was able to stir those old bittersweet memories.
Janna F
Houghton, MI
The quilt is very moving and beautiful. The smaller quilts were great!!! It reminded me of my husband’s grandmother.
Jonnie Egleston
Beloit, WI
Please email me with how to get a “strip” of fabric to put my father’s name on. Thank you.
Deb Z
Seeing all the names, made me remember that all these people are someone's “someone”! I love the hippo campus reminder. Will be praying for all families.
My father died last year from this terrible disease. I was so grateful when he passed that I hardly cried at all. Today looking at your quilts I couldn't stop crying. They are very moving. Thank you for the Kleenex.
What a wonderful idea. I wish I could have added my grandmother's name. She had dementia and I miss her terribly.
Lost my mom on Good Friday after 10 years of AD — finally she knows us and remembers.
Wonderful! My mother had Alzheimer's, but in the end, she was truly “care-free” and smiled at us all! ♥
Lost two family members and a cousin is currently dealing with this — keep up the great work, Ami!
Anna
Illinois
Very hard for me to see this but it's wonderful. My husband is suffering from this horrible disease. Thank you.
I can't say how much this exhibit touched me! What a wonderful way to remember and raise awareness for those touched by Alzheimer's and their families. Both my mother and mother-in-law suffered this disease, living well into their 90's.
Amazing! My father-in-law had Alzheimer's. Any attention to this plague is so appreciated.
This is a great idea! My grandmother died with Alzheimer's. Keep up the good work!
What a wonderfully powerful exhibit. Each of us knows someone struggling with this insidious disease. Thank you for this!
Sara Rehring
Very nice exhibit. Truly worthwhile.
Excellent display of a very emotional disease. The person it happens to and the family who prays some day for a cure. Thank you.
Deanna Luther
Wonderful display — riveting and emotional.
Joyce Hach
Middleton, WI
This is a powerful teaching tool that deeply touches each observer. The honesty and love so beautifully expressed moved me to tears repeatedly. I have been changed and enriched by this marvelous exhibit.
Amazing! I was so touched! Made the whole Expo worth the time —
American Quilter's Society Quilt Show
Knoxville, TN
July 13-16, 2011
Denise Fowler Panter
Knoxville, TN
I have had the privilege of working some with Alzheimer’s patients — seeing the amount of names here is staggering. God bless their hearts — heaven will be full of them!
J. Roth Franklin
West Virginia
My dad has Alzheimer’s. He still remembers our core family but grandchildren — no. It is sad he doesn’t do any of the activities he used to, and repetition in conversation is all that’s left.
My mother has this horrible disease, but she lives with it with such grace. She, in an advanced stage, still will pray and say thank you and start singing a line of a hymn or a nursery rhyme she sang to her babies. She still loves even when she doesn’t know whom she is loving.
Have many friends with this. I was lucky to purchase a quilt in Houston — I pray for them every day.
Hard to read the words by each small quilt … Made me think of what one of my favorite aunts just went through (and her family). She was cared for at home till the day she passed,
C. Ryan
Dalton, GA
Forever in my heart ♥ ♥ Donnie and Pearl. My loving, faithful husband passed so quickly. This is amazing. It brought tears of joy and so much appreciation now at his care.
P. Masser
Powell, TN
My mother has late stage Alzheimer’s. I found this exhibit very moving and exact.
Bonnie Holmes
Friendsville, TN
My dad died a year ago from this terrible disease. My mother did an amazing job taking care of him until his death. He was 90 years old. She is 80. This is an amazing tribute to the patient, caregiver, and family. Thank you.
G Cochrum
Knoxville, TN
Best part of the quilt show!
Kay Meredith
Knoxville, TN
Just lost a wonderful woman, Christine, this morning in Chapel Hill, NC.
Laura Lloyd
Chapel Hill, NC
My Mom passed away in March, 2011. This is the best healing for me and my sisters.
This exhibit has made me more aware of the heartbreak of Alzheimer’s. Painfully aware is a more true statement.
Patricia Vaughn
Maryville, TN
Very touching!
Margaret Kiern
Franklin, TN
Amazing exhibit! Thank you for lifting up the awareness.
Bonnie Barthelemy
Murfreesboro, TN
Until we meet again, Dad. I love you!
Dana Hogan
Loudon, TN
Very moving. So expressive.
Jan Darnell
Knoxville, TN
Extremely moving and so important to learn what I have ahead of me with my dear husband. Slowly he walks away, farther every day.
As I view these quilts I think of my beloved sister-in-law, Toyoko. As my brother said, “She just evaporated.”
Jane Brown
Cullowhee, NC
My sister was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2008 and she is already in the last stage. She is only 65. This is a wonderful thing you are doing.
Touching, good idea, amazing.
Rose Hedges
Knoxville, TN
Incredible. Helps mourn my grandfather’s loss to this disease.
Diane Early
Charlotte, NC
Wonderful, touching, sad, happy, purple — my mother-in-law. Thank you, Ami! The exhibit is stunning. You should allow photography.
What can I say. I’m in tears. Know too many people affected over the years! Lovely display.
D Stecker
Exceptional and moving. I cried. Thanks.
You captured the essence of the impact of Alzheimer’s on the individual and family through this artistic rendering. What a beautiful memorial to beautiful people!
Very moving quilts/stories. Will teach people what they don’t know.
Carol
Knoxville, TN
What a beautiful way to educate people about this debilitating disease — the words were touching and memorable.
Donna
Arden, NC
I am profoundly moved by your exhibit and vision. You evoke through art the often slow loss of a loved one’s mental faculties and the physical shell that remains. For me, this was my mother-in-law’s demise in the first 11 years of my marriage. Yours is a powerful tribute to the loss of many.
This exhibit moved me very much! I lost “Mother” on January 1, 2011 — age 94 years. She used to love to come with me to this Quilt Show!
I have tried twice to walk through this exhibit. I am moved to tears and have to walk away to compose myself. My Daddy is in early stages and it breaks my heart. Thanks for bringing this exhibit to this show. The loss to so many is heartbreaking.
J. Funderburk
North Carolina
Very moving, touches places very deep in my heart. Thank you for featuring this exhibit.
C Cross
Tennessee
This beautiful exhibit is so touching. My dad knows who we are and is always glad to see us but he can’t remember where to find the dishes to set the table for dinner. He can’t remember the thing he did yesterday or this morning. I love him so.
This is remarkable, and such a good way for the survivors to express their feeling. It must be very good for their soul.
R.S. Shovlin
FFC, TN
I’m speechless!! So many folks hurting from this horror. What a wonderful memorial!
Carol Roberts
Dandridge, TN
This is a very moving display honoring those who have fought the fight of the frightening disease of Alzheimer’s. My mom and mother-in-law both had it and it’s just a dreadful disease and frustrating for them and the ones who care for them.
Brenda Mitchell
Sheffield, AL
I am beginning to see the signs in my husband at age 63. It is hard for him to see those same symptoms. I hate the anger that ensues when he doesn’t remember. Alzheimer’s robs not only your loved family member of reason but yourself also. The tragedy includes everyone around you.
Great exhibit — emotions and thoughts exhibited are common threads when family member has Alzheimer’s.
Awesome exhibit! I’ve gone through so many of the same experiences as my mom passed a couple of years ago from this horrible disease — Hope we will find a cure very soon!
Fran
Kodak, TN
Hand Across The Valley Quilt Show
Amherst, MA
March 26-27, 2011
Thank you so much — so much excellent advice delivered so tenderly. Everyone should have a chance to be educated by these masterpieces.
Diane Ramsay
Westfield, MA
So beautiful and moving and I shed so many tears! Such a sad disease.
Amazing! Artistic — moving — can’t find good enough words to describe.
Beautiful — moving — wonderful exhibit.
I lost both of my grandmothers to Alzheimer’s/dementia within 10 days of each other this past July. This exhibit is beautiful and illustrates so many of the experiences my grandmothers, my family, and I have had with this disease.
Sarah Stafford
Springs, CT
Thank you to all the contributors for remembering. As a music therapist, I know that music is a powerful tool to help Alzheimer’s patients.
I facilitate a caregiver support group for families, friends, and individuals who suffer. 75% of attendees care for or suffer with dementia related conditions. This exhibit is sadly and warmly familiar. Beautiful work. Thank you!
Thank you for caring and remembering.
Profound.
Made me cry remembering my mother — she would be 108 March 28 —she died at age 91 after several years of being lost to Alzheimer’s. Lost her twice!
Adele Levine
Powerful. God bless.
Inspirational!
Very moving, brought tears to my eyes. Beautiful presentation. Thank you.
Karen
Springfield, MA
A wonderful exhibit — very moving.
L. Scranton
Springfield, MA
A very moving exhibit — while it worked to stir my emotions, especially having a family member dealing with this tragic disease, it was a good sadness.
Mary
Southampton, MA
Many are singular — ‘Memory Walk’ [by Susan “Smitty” Price] was exceptional.
All of these mini quilts touched me deeply!
Amity Giard
Beautiful piece! Thank you for all the people who shared their stories.
Moving, informative, heartbreaking, inspiring!
What a wonderful statement of caring.
Pat Pauly
Thank you for all you are doing.
Sara Fredette
Profound and evocative. Thank you.
So difficult to comprehend, but so important to understand. Thank you, Ami, for all you do!
Very emotional and amazing, so many names.
Profound — important to see. Thank everyone who shared their personal experiences.
So wonderful and so sad. Thank you, Ami!
What a tribute — beautiful.
Wonderful, emotional, overwhelming show — It reminds me of the Vietnam wall in Washington, D.C.
Susan Hayes
St Agawam, MA
A lovely and very moving exhibit.
Amazing — Touching — Wow.
This is awe inspiring — the numbers are staggering.
I was so moved to view this solemn exhibit. I saw tears and hugs as we read the notes. Thank you for your commitment to our loved ones dealing with Alzheimer’s.
Very informative and moving. Hope it helps find a cure.
Irene Clark
Belchertown, MA
A powerful, wonderful exhibit. The first exhibit made me cry — I had to stop looking. This one is just as moving, but better, in my opinion. Thanks!
Extremely moving to see my own powerful experiences reflected back to me by others. Metaphor and color and texture can communicate better than only words. Thank you.
Profound exhibit. Quite moving. I work in healthcare with children, yet see the commitment and dedication of families every day and know that there are also so many wonderful, caring family members caring for their loved ones with Alzheimer’s.
Extremely moving exhibit. I have been a caregiver for 15 years to many family members. The last two had dementia. The talk was excellent. Ami is to be commended for her caregiving. Thank you!
SJS
Stunning! Very emotional for me walking through. Thank you to all.
Jan
Guilford, Vermont
More powerful than words can really say — it was an honor to see and read your journeys. Thank you for that —
Liz
Absolutely beautiful, so thoughtful. I’d be glad to help by making some of the small quilted hangings.
Beautiful but hard to look at. My Mom just died from complications from Alzheimer’s and younger sister-in-law was diagnosed in her 50’s.
Jean C. Miller
Springfield, MA
How moving. Remembering friends and loved ones. For Alliette Fitzgerald and Mae Hartzell Drew.
Linda Fitzgerald
Springfield, MA
Thank you!
Diane DeHippolytis
This is just unbelievable — the small quilts and stories are so beautiful. It made me take a moment to pray for a cure.
Debby Whidden
Belchertown, MA
Thank you so much … it was moving.
Marcella and Beverly Jackson
Belchertown, MA
Beautiful and thoughtful. Thank you.
East Hartford, CT
Excellent exhibit.
This exhibit really shows the far-reaching affects of Alzheimer’s. Beautifully done.
Lara Kline
Springfield, MA
This exhibit is so helpful and educational. A fantastic learning tool and presented with great dignity. Thank you.
Kimberly Lambert
Northampton, MA
Great exhibit — thank you!
What an incredible display of emotion expressed by superbly fashioned quilts! Thanks to all —
Nancy Kalin
Florence, MA
Bring tissue. The individual quilts and the stories make us know we are not alone. Thanks.
Tina Tyler
Turners Falls, MA
Moving exhibit. Yes, you need to get this out to public view. Thank you for all your hard work in making this happen.
Julie Amherst
Wow! What an awesome exhibit! At a loss for words!
Michelle Plourcle
Very moving exhibit. The names quilts are amazing. I first saw an Alzheimer’s exhibit at Vermont Quilt Festival.
It’s overwhelming — such an incredible amount of work and love this represents!
Marion Kennedy
Orleans, MA
Beautiful representation of all the emotions we have dealing with this disease.
Susan Laford
Bernardston, MA
An extraordinary exhibit. Thank you.
So special. Saw the display 2 years ago. Just as impressive and moving now. How wonderful a tribute.
Beautiful show — brought me to tears …
So inspiring.
I was so moved! Beautiful and sad!
It’s beautiful. One of them reminded me of my mother.
The simplicity and directness of this display only enhances its moving power. The little quilts are all powerful but especially the ones depicting loss. Very impressive.
Katie George
This exhibit is truly a beautiful and “overwhelming” tribute to “all” the victims and families who are touched by the cruel hand of this disease.
Wow! An amazing, informative, moving, gorgeous, incredible exhibit! Thank you.
A very beautiful and moving tribute to our loved ones with this disease. I remember my husband’s mother fondly viewing these awesome works of art.
I am so moved! Being born a care provider (Mother with vascular dementia) plus RN/NP who trains people regarding dementia, this hit so many chords with me. Thank you so much!
Awesome display of reality done very artistically. Great job!
Awesome.
Amy W.
Pelham, MA
Ami, thank you for all you have done to make more people aware of this disease. Mini quilt coming.
Patty B
Creative, thoughtful, touching; a reminder to be aware and to be more compassionate … you could be there one day.
Cindy Watson
Granby, MA
Most impressive — beautifully displayed with much reflection and reverence for each individual.
Cathy Alsims
A powerful and evocative exhibit.
Thoughtful, tearful color-memories of loss and gains from disease. Well presented.
This quilt exhibit reminded me of the AIDS quilts I saw in 1986 on the mall in Washington, D.C. This show is as powerful! I’m moved to tears and fears! Thank you.
Powerful and moving! Thank you.
Incredibly powerful! And touching and inspiring. Thank you for all the work —
Beyond words — so moving, sad and yet so inspirational. Thank you.
Number 44 [“Memory Walk” by Susan “Smitty” Price] moved me to tears.
A beautifully presented show, very moving. These quilts should travel widely.
Thank you for sharing them though they are emotionally trying.
Thank you — beautiful, moving, emotional.
Donna
Williamsburg, MA