Richard Taylor, a wonderful human being, star advocate for Alzheimer’s disease, friend, and mentor, has died. He led by example. Richard was the very personification of “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” Passion was his “stick.” He spoke with elegance, he educated without teaching. His stories were poignant and moving. During his talks, people laughed and cried, often at the sa…me time. He gave so much to so many.

On July 2nd, Richard emailed me in his inimitable style.
“Hello, grim news, my cancer is back. Big time! Time running out quickly for yours truly…I am pulling back and in right now until I see how this new stage in my life fits me. I may be back, but I doubt it.”

I replied, in part:
“It goes without saying that if there is anything I can do for you, you need only ask. Tiffany and I feel so fortunate to have gotten to know you recently. You and I are of like minds in so many ways! You set the bar extremely high when it comes to advocacy and self-sacrifice. Rest assured that you have impacted both the present and the future for so many with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Your legacy will continue in the spirit and actions of so many other advocates who are inspired and educated by you.”

He responded:
“Hello, and thank you for your kind words. I wanted to notify some of my closer friends and kindred spirits before I blasted this across the internet.”

I’m proud to be one of his “kindred spirits.” Richard is in my thoughts. Keep him in yours!