December’s volunteer of the month is Kathy LaFone. Kathy, from North Carolina, volunteers out of a “crazy little thing called love” for her late husband, Tim, who had FTD. “I volunteer to honor Tim’s joie de vivre, optimism, perseverance, gift of connecting with others, and willingness to share his story,” Kathy said. “Volunteering with AFTD helps me to make sense of a family journey with FTD that lasted nearly twenty years. Quite simply and profoundly, volunteering with AFTD gives meaning to my life.”

Kathy’s love for Tim shines through in the many ways she helps those in her local community. As a support group facilitator in North Carolina, Kathy provides a safe and accepting space to help reduce caregiver isolation and distress. Kathy also raises critical funds each year with her Food for Thought event, TIMFEST. Each year she organizes this event in Tim’s memory with her daughter, Sara, and the help of Tim’s friends.

Prior to the pandemic, Kathy raised awareness of FTD and AFTD through table settings where she shared information, resources and her personal experience as a caregiver.

AFTD is immensely grateful to Kathy for her years of dedication and service, and the vital support she provides to those in her local community who’ve been affected by FTD.

If you’re interested in becoming a part of our national volunteer network, please visit our website to learn more, and fill out our volunteer form to get started.