The Meaning Behind LMJ's Lost Souls - It’s a movement
Kari-Ann & Laverne
The name of our organization, LMJ's Lost Souls - Alzheimer's Fund, carries profound meaning. It reflects not only our memories of those we love, but also our commitment to fight for the countless individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of Dementia. Each letter in “LMJ” represents a personal story of love, loss, and resilience—stories that are all too common among those touched by this devastating illness. Our organization was born out of a deep desire to ensure that the memories of our loved ones are preserved, that their journeys are honored, and that we continue to raise awareness to combat the effects of Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s does not just affect one person; it ripples through families, friendships, and entire communities. The name “Lost Souls” acknowledges that Alzheimer’s often feels like a gradual loss of the person we knew, as memories fade and identities seem to slip away. But through LMJ’s Lost Souls, we are committed to keeping their spirit alive—through our work in awareness, research, education, and support. Our mission is to honor not just those who have passed, but also those currently battling this disease and their families who walk this difficult road alongside them.
L is for Laverne
Laverne, the grandmother of Kari-Ann Ryan (founder and President BoD), battled Alzheimer’s for over 13 years. Known for her selflessness and dedication to her family, Laverne's strength, and grace in the face of Alzheimer’s was an inspiration to all who knew her. Kari-Ann witnessed firsthand the toll this disease took on her grandmother, but also saw Laverne’s unwavering love even as the illness progressed. In naming the organization after Laverne, we honor her life, her memory, and her fight. You can read more about Kari-Ann and Laverne’s journey in this heartfelt blog.
MJ is for Mary Jo
Mary Jo, the mother of Matt Harrold, was taken by Alzheimer’s far too soon. The loss of a mother to this disease at an early age is a heart-wrenching experience, and for Matt, this was a life-defining moment. He watched as Alzheimer’s slowly took away the vibrant woman who had raised him, transforming their relationship and his perspective on the future. By embedding Mary Jo’s name in LMJ’s Lost Souls, Matt seeks to ensure that her story, and the stories of others like her, are never forgotten. Matt’s personal account of his battle alongside his mother can be read in this blog.
Lost Souls – A Tribute to All Affected by Alzheimer's
The phrase Lost Souls is a tribute to all those who have been impacted by Alzheimer’s—the individuals living with the disease, the families who care for them, and the caregivers who offer support during some of life’s most difficult moments. Alzheimer’s is a disease that gradually steals the essence of a person, often leaving behind someone who feels unfamiliar to their loved ones. But these people, these souls, are never truly lost in our hearts. At LMJ’s Lost Souls, we believe that even as Alzheimer’s takes away memories, it can never erase the love, the experiences, or the impact these individuals have had on our lives.
Our organization exists to ensure that no one facing this disease is forgotten. We are dedicated to honoring all souls affected by Alzheimer's and other forms of Dementia—whether they are in the early stages of the disease or have long since passed. LMJ’s Lost Souls is committed to being a voice for those who can no longer speak for themselves, providing resources and support to families, and advocating for increased research so future generations will not have to face the pain of this illness.
Through our programs, fundraising efforts, and community outreach, we aim to create a lasting tribute to all who are touched by Alzheimer's. Every dollar raised, every story shared, and every event hosted is done with the purpose of preserving the legacy of those we have lost and supporting those still fighting. Alzheimer’s may take memories, but we believe in preserving the spirit of each individual—their passions, their stories, their love.
LMJ's Lost Souls - Alzheimer's Fund is not just a non-profit organization; it’s a MOVEMENT dedicated to remembering, honoring, and supporting every soul affected by this disease.
Please feel free to share your story with us.