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Trailblazing Across America: 80-Year-Old Woman with Alzheimer’s Takes 3,000-Mile Journey to Inspire Healthy Living
Thirteen years after receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, a vibrant California woman sets out on a monumental walk across America. This journey aims to highlight the importance of action in maintaining health as we age. Judy Benjamin, PhD, now 80 years old, embarked on her ambitious quest on Saturday, April 5, kicking off a 3,000-mile journey that will take her from San Diego, California, to St. Augustine, Florida, over the course of five months.
During her quest, Benjamin hopes to spread her message of resilience and determination. “People wonder why I would put myself through this,” she said in an interview before her walk. “I really want to share with others not to be discouraged.” With a conviction in her voice, she added, “Life is here to enjoy, and age is a number. You don’t have to be identified by that number.”
The Early Years with Alzheimer’s
Benjamin first learned of her early-onset Alzheimer’s disease at 67. Given her family history—her mother was diagnosed at 63 and nine uncles suffered the same fate—she was understandably concerned about her own health. Reflecting on the fear that overcame her, Benjamin admitted, “It was very scary for me.”
After the passing of her mother, while working overseas, she began to experience troubling symptoms. “I started to get really worried because I couldn’t remember things — even my own phone number or locker combination,” she recalled. Instances of getting lost while driving further heightened her concern, as did moments when she struggled to remember her grandchildren’s names.
Seeking Help and Finding Hope
Her anxieties culminated in brain scans revealing considerable amyloid plaque and damage to critical areas of her brain. Feeling panicked and desperate for answers, she sought the expertise of Dr. Dale Bredesen, a California physician conducting groundbreaking research on Alzheimer’s. His innovative theories reshaped her understanding of the disease.
Dr. Bredesen explained that Alzheimer’s is not caused by a single factor; rather, it stems from multiple assaults on the brain that cause inflammation. Through personalized strategies, he aided Benjamin in reducing this inflammation by implementing lifestyle changes that would promote cognitive health.
Implementing Lifestyle Changes
Motivated by the insights from her doctor, Benjamin embarked on a transformative journey. “I wrote down what he recommended, and started implementing it to the letter — I changed my whole lifestyle,” she explained.
Key changes included a focus on optimizing sleep, improving indoor air quality, and practicing meditation to reduce stress. Exercise also became a regular part of her routine, along with significant alterations in her diet. “I stopped drinking diet soda, eliminated sugar, and embraced whole foods like vegetables and fruits,” she shared.
Reclaiming Her Life
As Benjamin implemented these strategies, she noticed gradual improvements in her cognitive health. “It wasn’t overnight; it’s not a magic bullet,” she stated. However, her joy was palpable when she realized she could remember her grandchildren’s names again. Inspired by her newfound vitality and the benefits of her lifestyle changes, she decided to make it her mission to help others facing similar challenges.
Benjamin became a national board-certified health and wellness coach, specializing in brain health and neurology. She began training for her epic walk, believing it was the best way to prepare herself for such an extensive journey. “There’s really no way to train for a 3,000-mile walk, except to walk as much as you can,” she said with conviction. “Walking is the most natural thing that a human being can do. We were born to walk.”
The Journey Begins
Accompanying her on this cross-country trek will be a dedicated support team and a film crew documenting her journey for an upcoming documentary. “I do have an RV with a comfortable bed, shower, and cooking facilities,” she explained. During more remote stretches, they will sleep in the RV, but she also hopes to stop at hotels whenever possible.
With support from wellness sponsors such as Apollo Health and CareScouts, Benjamin aims to cover approximately 20 miles a day, taking time to rest on occasion. “I plan to stop once a week to recover, maybe take a sauna or just kick back,” she mentioned. Despite being 80, Benjamin feels more energetic than ever before her diagnosis. She exudes confidence in her health and well-being.
A Message of Hope and Action
As Benjamin walks across America, she hopes her journey will motivate others to adopt healthier, more active lifestyles for the sake of their brain health. “When I received my diagnosis, I had a choice — I could let it define me or take action,” she said firmly. Her message resonates: regardless of age or circumstances, individuals can make choices that promote a vibrant life. “This walk is about proving that possibility,” she concluded.
Benjamin’s journey is a profound testament to resilience and the human spirit. Those inspired by her story can follow along on her website Judywalks.com or through her social media accounts.
