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Courtesy of Press-Enterprise
On New Year's Day, Nelly Miranda, a certified nursing assistant for Emeritus Corona, will do what many people dream of -- ride atop a float at the Tournament of Roses Parade.
The float, titled "The Boomer Express," is sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association and Pfizer. It's the final piece of their "It's Time to Face Alzheimer's" initiative designed to encourage all Americans to join the fight against the disease.
This message is now more crucial than ever for the 10 million at-risk baby boomers in the country -- with the oldest members of the group turning 65 in 2011. By 2030, the number of seniors with Alzheimer's is estimated to grow by 2.5 million. Along with that growth comes a critical need for caregivers such as Miranda who have the skill and compassion to care for individuals with this disease.
"We are extremely proud that Nelly gets to be honored in this way," said Vicky L. Torres, Emeritus Corona's executive director. "Nelly started working at Emeritus Corona when she was just 18, after completing her CNA training, and it didn't take long for her talent to be recognized. Nelly is very mature for her age and cares for our residents with a very calm and full heart. Her natural ability helps our residents feel they have a safe environment, which is so meaningful for individuals who have dementia."
"This has been the most difficult, but most amazing job for me," said Miranda. I joined this community at an age where most people still believe that life is 'all about me.' It's a whole new perspective. I instantly realized that it's not all about me. It's about them. I'm very attached to these residents. They will mark my life. And I'm honored that I get to join their journey."
Miranda and "The Boomer Express" will follow the 5.5-mile route at the Rose Parade, themed Building Dreams, Friendships & Memories, on Saturday in Pasadena. The float is a 55-foot-long train that will ring its bell every 70 seconds to represent how frequently someone in America develops Alzheimer's disease.
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