Memories Worth Fighting For: Ann's Journey with Kisunla

Ann’s story reflects both the hope and courage that often accompany the fight against early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. When Ann first began treatment at the Sage Infusion St. Petersburg location, she says she immediately felt at ease. “Everyone is so nice,” she shares. “I feel welcome every time I come in. The space is beautiful, and the staff are welcoming, professional, and caring.”

Last year, after her third Kisunla infusion, Ann learned she had developed ARIA, a known side effect associated with certain Alzheimer’s therapies that involves temporary swelling in areas of the brain. Side effects like ARIA can be found on MRI scans closely monitored by neurology and Sage Infusion’s MemoryWorkx team. Following an infusion, the MemoryWorkx Clinical Nurse Coordinator will follow the patient’s MRI scans to monitor for the possibility of ARIA and coordinate with the neurologist if additional imaging is needed.

Although ARIA can sound frightening for patients and families, Ann says the diagnosis came as a shock primarily because she felt completely normal physically. “I had no symptoms at all,” she recalls. “I didn’t feel any different.” Even without symptoms, the discovery of ARIA was an emotional moment. The possibility of complications can feel intimidating, especially for patients already facing the uncertainty of Alzheimer’s disease. But throughout the experience, Ann says the support and guidance from the Sage Infusion and MemoryWorkx team helped her remain calm and confident in her care plan.

After careful monitoring and discussions with her healthcare providers, Ann ultimately chose to restart treatment — a decision she made with both realism and hope. She understands the risks involved, but for her, the opportunity to potentially slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease is worth continuing to pursue. “It’s the only thing available to help me, and I’m willing to try anything,” she says.

Ann’s experience with ARIA became a triumph of resilience rather than a reason to give up. Despite facing one of the most concerning risks associated with treatment, she chose to move forward with optimism, motivated by a desire for more meaningful time with the people she loves — especially traveling with her partner. Preserving memories and independence motivates her to keep fighting.

Stories like Ann’s remind caregivers and patients that many are willing to face these risks in hopes of gaining more valuable time with loved ones. Today, Ann encourages others who may feel nervous about beginning treatment not to let fear stop them. “There’s nothing to be scared of,” she says. “If it helps a person feel better and spend more time with those they love, it’s worth doing.”

Ann’s story serves as a powerful reminder that behind every treatment journey is a person fighting for memories. At Sage Infusion, patients like Ann are met with compassionate care and a team committed to supporting them through every step.