11/17/2025
Honoring Terryâs Legacy Through the Memory CafĂ©
This Alzheimerâs Awareness Month, we shine a light on the importance of dementia support in our community and on those who make this work possible. One of those generous supporters is Mary Karkela, who, along with her family, chose to sponsor the Elevate Memory CafĂ© in memory of her husband, Terry.
âTerry was so involved in our community and always felt it was his job to give back,â Mary shared. âHe believed in making Perham a great place to live, and the Memory CafĂ© serves this belief by helping families whose loved one has dementia.â
For Mary, the Memory CafĂ© is more than a programâitâs a lifeline for caregivers. As someone who cared for Terry at home for several years after his diagnosis with frontotemporal dementia in 2017, Mary knows firsthand the value of support. âI hope people who are members of the Memory CafĂ© find a safe place to discuss the challenges they face daily with no judgment,â she said. âI also hope caregivers who bring their loved ones feel they are accepted, no matter what level of dementia they are experiencing.â
When Terry was diagnosed, there were no Memory CafĂ©s in the area. Today, the Perham Memory CafĂ© has become a gathering place for dozens of families, providing education, comfort, and connection. Maryâs generosity ensures Terryâs legacy lives onâhelping others find hope, understanding, and support along their own journeys.
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Join us for our next Memory CafĂ© this Thursday (November 20) from 1-3pm at Crosspoint Alliance Church! We'll discuss Managing the Holidays, and how you can prepare or make simple adjustments to reduce stress for you and your loved one. RSVP Appreciated đ https://elevateotc.events/memory-cafe