When Sonja and James Brown settled in Dover after decades of military life, they expected a peaceful retirement filled with family, travel, and the sports they loved—especially James’ passion for basketball. But a few years ago, subtle changes began to disrupt their routine: James withdrew from friends, lost interest in basketball—even skipping Delaware State University games—and stopped preparing the family meals he once enjoyed making.
“Little things were changing, but those little things started adding up to a lot,” Sonja recalled. “At his 75th birthday, surrounded by his seven siblings, James didn’t interact with his family the way he normally would. He told me, ‘Something’s wrong.’”
James, a Vietnam and Desert Storm veteran who retired as a Command Sergeant Major after 30 years of service, recognized the changes himself. Sonja became his advocate, determined to find answers. After visits to several neurologists, the couple finally received a diagnosis: vascular dementia.
From Personal Challenge to Public Advocacy
Rather than retreat, Sonja decided to share their journey to help others. She connected with the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter and now serves as a trained volunteer community educator. She regularly speaks to groups across Delaware—including at Delaware State University, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and her church—about the importance of early detection, brain health, and accessible support.
“It is so important to educate others,” Sonja said. “Early detection is key. There are things you can do to improve brain health, and people need to know about them.”
Sonja is particularly passionate about reaching diverse communities. “People of color sometimes ignore the warning signs or don’t have access to services,” she explained. Studies show that Black Americans are twice as likely as White Americans to develop Alzheimer’s disease.
A Village Approach to Living Well
James continues to stay active, participating in a local memory care program and spending time with their son, church members, and his cousin—a retired social worker—who keeps him engaged with puzzles and games. Both Sonja and James focus on healthy living by exercising regularly and maintaining a balanced diet.
“Keeping the mind and body active makes a difference,” Sonja said.
Rallying the Community: Walk to End Alzheimer’s
For the third year, the Brown family is leading Team James Brown in the Southern Delaware Walk to End Alzheimer’s, taking place Saturday, October 4, at Grove Park. The team, made up of James’ siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends, walks in solidarity to raise awareness and funds.
To support the cause, Sonja is organizing creative fundraisers:
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A Line Dance Fundraiser in her church’s parking lot, with a suggested $5 donation.
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A unique Silent Tea, where participants brew tea at home on a designated date and time, reflecting on the cause while donating to the Walk.
Caring for the Caregiver
As a caregiver, Sonja stresses the importance of self-care. She attends retreats, participates in support groups, and shares this advice with others:
“Take care of yourself, and when things are challenging, remember—it’s the disease. And there is help out there for you.”
Get Involved
To learn more or register for the Southern Delaware Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit act.alz.org/southerndelaware.
For information, support, and resources, call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org/delval.
