Learning Passion Through GlamourGals

Grishell G., Treasurer of Palm Desert High School chapter recognizes the health benefits of socialization and reflects on how she feels motivated to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease. 

Living in a city surrounded by senior homes, I often noticed the elderly community lacked proper interactions with friends or families. These seniors, confined to their rooms due to health issues, need socialization to enrich their lives. Through GlamourGals, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to their well-being by sharing a few hours of my time, which makes a huge difference in their day and mine. During my first visit, I painted a resident's nails, whose favorite color was red, because it reminded her of her youth. We chatted for a while about each other's lives, and her caregiver had to say to me that she “hasn’t seen her smile like this in a long time because no one visits her.” It was heartbreaking to hear, yet it reinforced the true significance of my visits. GlamourGals has opened new doors and perspectives for my long-term goals. 

Alzheimer’s has deeply affected my life, with my father showing early signs of the disease. This has driven me to focus on the lack of cures for Alzheimer’s and other illnesses. Through GlamourGals, I connected with the Alzheimer's non-profit organization of ACV and conversed with people affected by the disease. As I move on to university, I plan to continue this heartfelt work, spreading joy and companionship to the elderly.