By Jasmine Smith
(Source Black Doctor.org.)
Living with Alzheimer’s disease can be both challenging and frightening. However, stories of resilience and hope can inspire those in similar situations. One such story is that of Arthur Ronald Gooden, known as Ron to his loved ones. A former community college professor, Ron’s experience highlights the significant impact of early detection.
Ron’s journey began around 70 years old while he was still actively teaching. He started noticing frequent memory lapses, which initially seemed like typical “senior moments.” However, these incidents became more frequent and severe. He found himself forgetting students’ names and even simple daily tasks when he was in the middle of a lecture. This forgetfulness went beyond the occasional misplaced keys or forgotten appointments.
“Imagine, you’re in the middle of teaching, and suddenly, you can’t remember what you were saying. It was happening more and more often,” Ron recalls. This growing concern prompted him to seek medical advice.
Upon consulting his doctor, Ron was diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s. This news was initially devastating, as it signaled the potential end of his teaching career, a profession he loved deeply. Despite the fear and uncertainty, Ron approached his diagnosis with a problem-solving mindset.
“I’ve always tried to fix problems in my life. The next step was to find out what could be done,” he explains. This proactive attitude led him to Dr. Ashok Patel and a clinical study program at Bio Behavioral Health that would become a turning point in his journey.
Ron’s treatment involved a combination of medical interventions, including a medication called LEQEMBI, and cognitive exercises. He underwent various brain exercises designed to stimulate different parts of his brain and improve memory function. Activities ranged from using flashcards to practicing tasks with his non-dominant hand, all aimed at keeping his brain active and engaged.
Physical exercise also played a crucial role. Although initially reluctant, Ron soon recognized the benefits of staying physically active. The regimen helped him feel more energized and capable of managing his symptoms.
“The treatment program tries to force my brain to work a little harder than it might naturally by thinking about different things and taking different journeys,” Ron, who is also a prostate cancer survivor, explains. “It’s like physical exercise – if you don’t use it, you lose it. This disease makes some things harder, but it’s the same concept. They force me to start using my brain again and think outside the box.”
Despite his initial concerns about his career, Ron has found a new path as a court system tipstaff. This role involves maintaining order in the courtroom, ensuring that proceedings run smoothly, and supporting the judge. It’s a full-time job that has brought structure and purpose back into his life.
“Being back at work, I don’t feel 79 years old. I feel like I did when I was 55 or 60,” he shares. His return to the workforce was a testament to his resilience and the effectiveness of his treatment plan.
Ron, who observed that his memory deteriorated during periods of inactivity, reflects, “I understand that I’ll continue to experience memory lapses. However, I’ve discovered strategies to manage them and still accomplish my tasks. I might need to take notes in a new way or approach problems differently. These are all techniques I learned in the program, which taught me alternative methods to maintain my effectiveness in any situation.”
