WAUWATOSA — It's an insidious disease that steals the life of so many entering their golden years.
Former Governor Marty Schreiber knows that all too well - his wife Elaine has Alzheimer's.
While there is no cure there is hope - Elaine's Hope.
Good luck trying to slow down Marty Schrieber.
At age 80, he is still a tireless champion for helping caregivers and ending Alzheimer's.
Schreiber was instrumental in raising money for Elaine's Hope, the memory care addition at Lutheran Home in Wauwatosa.
His wife Elaine has lived here for nearly five years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's 16 years ago.
"If there's an Alzheimer's diagnosis there are two patients - the person who is ill and the caregiver," said Schrieber.
The $12 million facility has room for 72 people. $10 million was raised from 300 contributors with one goal in mind.
"So Elaine's Hope is that people with dementia and also their caregivers can live their best life possible," said Schreiber.
The Schreibers shared their story in a loving book called My Two Elaines.
His message to caregivers - meaning spouses or adult children, learn to take care of yourself.
"Once I did learn it and understood it, it made a difference in both Elaine's life and my life."
These days you can find Marty and Elaine together almost every day sharing moments of selfless love.
"I don't ever wake up in the morning and say: 'Oh my God I have to go see Elaine,' in fact I look forward to it, to know that I might get a smile to know that she might squeeze my hand back."
Marty Schreiber provided the lead gift for the new addition at the Lutheran Home in Wauwatosa,
Wisconsin First Lady Kathy Evers was there Wednesday for the opening celebration.
