Ernie Behrle

Ernie lives in constant fear of what’s coming next after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. He is based in Raleigh, North Carolina.

In October 2023, 71-year-old Ernie Behrle of Raleigh, North Carolina received news that would forever alter the course of his life. After undergoing sleep studies at Duke University in Durham, NC, his doctor suspected something more serious than just sleep disturbances. A test for Alzheimer’s was ordered, primarily to rule it out. Unfortunately, it didn’t rule it out – it confirmed it. Alzheimer’s had arrived. 

But there was hope. Ernie’s doctor recommended an experimental treatment in its testing phase, a promising remedy that could potentially slow or reverse the disease’s progress. With cautious optimism, he enrolled, desperate for any chance. But just a week before he was to be admitted, his doctor called his wife with devastating news. Mr. Behrle no longer qualified for the trial due to a specific genetic abnormality. It was a cruel twist of fate. 

Now, on approved daily medications, he clings to hope that future research will bring new treatments, something to hold on to, something that might delay the inevitable.

But the reality is clear: he is acutely aware of his own cognitive decline, a fate that is terrifying and crushing. 

Though he remains active, holding a part-time job and walking local trails with his four dogs, he faces each day with the knowledge that Alzheimer’s is advancing. His supportive family – his wife, three grown children, and grandchildren – help him stay grounded. Yet, the fear of what’s coming is always present. 

We need more options. We need more research, and we need it now.

He is living proof of how critical it is to invest in research for treatments, therapies, and cures for Alzheimer’s. Time is running out, and for those like Ernie Berhle, it’s already too late to wait any longer.