Facing Alzheimer’s with Hope: Laura Jacobsen’s Story November 5, 2026 For much of her life, Laura Jacobsen wondered whether Alzheimer’s disease would one day affect her, too. Her grandmother and mother both lived with dementia, and Laura saw firsthand how the disease affected their lives and the people who loved them. “I believed the day would come,” she said. When Laura began noticing changes in her own memory, she knew she wanted answers. “I felt foggy,” she said. “I didn’t dwell on it, but the question of Alzheimer’s was on my mind.” Finding Answers at Broadlawns Laura sought testing at the Mayo Clinic before coming to the Broadlawns Memory Center, which helps patients experiencing memory loss and changes in thinking, including those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. At Broadlawns, Laura began seeing Yogesh Shah, MD, MPH, FAAFP, Medical Director. After additional testing, she learned she had early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. Although the diagnosis confirmed a fear she carried for years, Laura wanted to understand her options. Working with Dr. Shah, she decided to begin treatment with Kisunla, an infusion medication designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in certain patients with early-stage symptoms. Not everyone with Alzheimer’s is eligible for this treatment, and it is not a cure. But for Laura, it offered an opportunity to take an active role in managing her disease. Support Along the Way Laura received 18 Kisunla infusions and had regular MRI scans to monitor for possible side effects. Her husband of 60 years, Roger, was with her throughout treatment. “Roger is my support person. He has never missed an appointment,” Laura said. Laura also formed friendships with the nurses who cared for her. “Time went fast and the nurses became my friends,” she said. When Laura completed her final infusion, her nurses wanted to celebrate. They didn’t have a bell for her to ring, so one of them made an origami bell with a handwritten message: “Ding, Ding, Ding, 18 infusions of Kisunla!” It was a gesture Laura says she’ll always remember. Looking Ahead Laura is encouraged by her follow-up test results and grateful for the care she received at Broadlawns. She and Roger enjoy spending time with their four children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They also enjoy traveling, attending church, and participating in the Broadlawns Memory Center Support Group. Now, Laura wants to help others understand the importance of talking with their healthcare providers about changes in memory or thinking. She points to advances in Alzheimer’s testing, including blood tests that can help doctors evaluate the disease. “It’s a simple blood test. It’s one of the most amazing discoveries in this decade,” Laura said. For Laura, sharing her experience is a way to help others learn about the testing and treatment options that may be available to them. "I am confident again. I’m not afraid of the future,” she said. Learn More About Memory Care at Broadlawns Concerned about changes in your memory or the memory of someone you love? The Broadlawns Memory Center provides specialized evaluation, treatment and support for patients with Alzheimer's disease, other types of dementia and memory concerns. Talk with your primary care provider about a referral to the Broadlawns Memory Center. Learn more about the Broadlawns Memory Center.