Growing up, Jack Witzig saw how his father inspired others. His dad Don was a cross country and track coach at two different high schools. He motivated his students to always push forward, to keep running, to never give up—even when times get tough. And Witzig’s father never gave up either, even after beginning his fight with Lewy body dementia.
Unfortunately, the elder Witzig passed away from the disease in 2016. Since then, Witzig has taken to the streets in a dual effort to connect with his father’s memory and to raise Lewy body dementia awareness. NBC Philadelphia reports that he has run over 2,000 miles throughout Camden County, NJ. 2,237 miles to be more specific.
The run helps him to relax, to think, and to focus. But even more importantly, it helps Witzig contribute to research on Lewy body dementia. His fundraising page explains that the funds he garners will be donated to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA). This nonprofit organization has a mission of improving the lives of those affected—both patients and families alike—and contributing to scientific advancements.
As he looks to the future, Witzig remains committed to giving back. Learn more about his mission and how you can donate to the cause.
About Lewy Body Dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of progressive dementia, with Lewy body dementia following suit as the second most common. This multisystem disease occurs when clumps of proteins form deposits in the brain called Lewy bodies. These deposits cause brain damage, particularly in areas responsible for memory, motor control, and thinking. Doctors aren’t sure why this occurs but they have identified risk factors, such as older age, being male, and having a family history of this disease.
Symptoms of Lewy body dementia may include:
- Visual hallucinations
- Note: Other hallucinations, such as olfactory, auditory, and tactile, may also occur. However, visual hallucinations are more common.
- Sleep difficulties
- Problems with bowel and bladder control
- Dizziness
- Tremors
- Apathy or depression
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Movement disorders
- Fluctuating attention spans (staring into space, drowsiness, etc.)
Check out this symptom guide from the LBDA for a more comprehensive and specific list of symptoms.
There is no cure for Lewy body dementia. Treatment options aim to control and manage symptoms. However, more research and understanding is needed to improve outcomes and life spans. At the moment, this disease is often fatal within 10 years after symptoms appear.
