Please join us on Sunday September 18 at noon in our Fellowship Hall as we welcome the Rev. Dr. Cynthia Huling-Hummel, who will lead us in a workshop, "From 'Why Me' to 'What's Next?': After the Diagnosis." (Prior to the workshop, Dr. Hummel will preside at worship, which takes place at 10:30 AM.)

In 2011 Dr. Hummel was diagnosed with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment, a progressive, degenerative brain disorder that can be a precursor to full-blown Alzheimer's disease. This brought to a close one chapter of her life-- her time as a parish pastor-- and opened another.

Now Hummel is extremely active as an advocate for those with Alzheimer's disease, serving at the local and national levels.  In 2015 she was chosen as a member of the National Alzheimer’s Association Early-Stage Advisory Group. This group helps to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s, reduce stigma and advocate for increased research funding.

When asked what it means to “live well with dementia” she says: “Living well” is about finding joy and happiness in spite of a diagnosis. It’s about maintaining “selfhood” even as the self slips away. It’s about focusing on the present, even as the events of the past fade into a fog. It’s about acceptance of the losses in life and the being thankful for the blessings found. It’s about faith, hope and love.”

Following worship today, Dr. Hummel will lead a workshop in the Fellowship Hall: "From 'Why Me' to 'What's Next?': After the Diagnosis." It will be meaningful to all who have experienced-- either personally or through a loved one-- a profound life change because of any diagnosis, not only diagnoses of dementia. Please join us for this very special day.