Bluffton couple continues Alzheimer’s fight three years after diagnosis

BLUFFTON, S.C. (WTOC) - Three years after Chris Long received his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, he and his wife Janet are preparing for another Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Chris Long, 67, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2022. At the time, doctors told him he likely only had a few years to live.

“The doctor came in and said well you probably have four years to live and that um, that set me back quite a ways,” Chris told WTOC in a 2023 interview.

Condition remains stable

Janet Long, Chris’s wife and caregiver, said his condition has not deteriorated as quickly as they expected.

“He’s still my husband. He’s still my Chris,” Janet said.

Chris acknowledges the changes in his cognitive abilities.

“My mind is not the way it used to be,” he said. “It’s difficult for me to remember the things that I think I remember.”

The 67-year-old said he doesn’t trust himself in conversation, calling it irritating.

Community support and breakthrough treatment

Two years ago, Chris stood on stage at the Bluffton Walk to End Alzheimer’s representing other patients. The Alzheimer’s Association told WTOC, he was the first person in the state to participate while receiving breakthrough treatment with FDA-approved Leqembi.

“I felt very supported at the last walk. To see all those people walking for something that could affect me. It was really heartfelt,” Chris said.

The couple has celebrated life moments they weren’t sure they would experience, including their sons’ weddings.

“Now we are just hoping for grandchildren. Babies we want babies,” Janet and Chris laugh.

Fundraising efforts

Janet and Chris have raised more than $9,000 for a Walk team filled with people in their neighborhood. Janet is currently one of the largest individual fundraisers for the entire event.

“I also know that when I wake up in the morning next to him and tell him what’s on the agenda for the day that we’re here and we’re doing it together. And he’s... he’s the same guy I married. Maybe a little older,” Janet said.

The Bluffton Walk to End Alzheimer’s takes place Saturday October 25th at 10 a.m. on the Promenade in Old Town Bluffton.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, including 300,000 in Georgia and South Carolina.

If you want to donate, here is a link to Team WTOC’s fundraising page. Donations are accepted through the end of the year.