Ex-Eagles Cheerleader's New Fight: Alzheimer's Caregiving

Karen Sandone, a former captain of the Philadelphia Eagles cheerleaders, is being celebrated for her tireless advocacy for those caring for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Sandone's personal journey began when her husband, Anthony, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's at age 55, a process that took two years for a definitive diagnosis.

Now providing full-time care, Sandone has transitioned from the football field to the forefront of a new battle, highlighting the immense financial, medical, and physical challenges caregivers face. She has even sold her home to cover her husband's care expenses.

Through her podcast, "Surviving the Now," and a significant social media presence, Sandone offers support to a growing community of caregivers nationwide. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed; she recently received the "Caregiver of the Year" award from the Women's Alzheimer's Movement at Cleveland Clinic and was named "Citizen of the Week" by The Philadelphia Citizen.

Sandone emphasizes that her motivation stems from helping others, especially as more young individuals are diagnosed with Alzheimer's. She compares her life's journey to the Eagles' seasons, acknowledging both the struggles and the triumphs.