Young Mom Fights Early-Onset Alzheimer's, Shares Inspiring Journey

In November 2025, Staci Marklin, a 47-year-old former nurse living in Knoxville, Tennessee, is grappling with an unexpected and life-changing diagnosis: early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Staci first noticed subtle memory lapses during her pregnancy and postpartum period, which she initially dismissed as "mom brain." However, as time passed, her symptoms worsened, and she began struggling to find the right words and remember basic information.

Concerned, Staci sought medical advice, but a doctor initially reassured her that the chances of her developing early-onset dementia at her age were extremely low. Nonetheless, Staci's symptoms continued to worsen, and she eventually underwent a series of tests that confirmed her Alzheimer's diagnosis in October 2024, when her son Gunnar was just two years old.

Staci's diagnosis has been a profound challenge, both for her and her family. She now faces the daunting task of navigating life with a progressive condition that is often associated with older adults. Determined to make the most of the time she has, Staci has started creating video messages for her son, hoping to preserve her memories and leave a lasting legacy for him to cherish as he grows up without her.

Despite the difficulties, Staci remains hopeful. She has recently begun a new treatment, lecanemab, which is designed to remove harmful plaques in the brain and potentially slow the cognitive decline associated with early-onset Alzheimer's. While it is too early to say if the treatment will benefit her, Staci is determined to fight this disease and make the most of the time she has left with her family.