A Decade of Supporting Alzheimer’s Disease Research
High school sweethearts Janet and Phil Spanninger of Akron, Ohio, have been married for 59 years. They raised three children and have four grandchildren. Phil’s career as a chemist for Goodyear and later working in international business afforded them the opportunity to live around the world, including Germany, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom. They loved participating in sports, with skiing among their favorites.
After Janet’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2012, they moved to Montana, where they continued to enjoy an active lifestyle of skiing and hiking with a dedicated group of supportive friends for several years. After Janet’s condition progressed, they moved back to Ohio where she is now living in a retirement community.
The Spanningers’ commitment to supporting Alzheimer’s Disease Research (ADR), a program of BrightFocus Foundation, goes back a decade. Phil had explored different options to help support Alzheimer’s research before selecting ADR. He appreciates the scientific updates and news on the latest research in the field.
“Research is very, very important,” said Phil. “Without research, we will never find the cure. Whatever anyone can give to support research, I would highly recommend they do it.”
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Alzheimer's disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma affect nearly 300 million people around the world and touch the lives of countless more. Bold research can build a brighter future for all.
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