Clear Guidance, LLC

03/17/2026

A big THANK YOU to our incredible PHOTOGRAPHY SPONSORS for helping capture the special moments at the Care Managers for a Cause fundraiser!

Your generosity is helping make this meaningful event possible, and we are so grateful for your support. Because of you, we’ll be able to preserve the smiles, connections, and unforgettable moments as our community comes together to celebrate, connect, and support an important cause.

We’re proud to partner with businesses and community champions who share our commitment to helping end Alzheimer’s. 💜

Stay tuned as we continue to spotlight more amazing sponsors leading up to the event!

03/16/2026

A SURPRISING BLOOD PROTEIN PATTERN MAY REVEAL ALZHEIMER'S
A new blood test may detect Alzheimer’s earlier by spotting subtle changes in the shape of proteins in the bloodstream.

Date: March 12, 2026

Source: Scripps Research Institute

Summary: A new study suggests Alzheimer’s disease may be detectable through subtle shape changes in proteins found in the blood. Researchers discovered that structural differences in three blood proteins closely track the progression of the disease. By analyzing these changes in more than 500 people, the team was able to distinguish healthy individuals from those with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s with impressive accuracy. The approach could help move diagnosis and treatment to earlier stages.

Alzheimer's disease affects an estimated 7.2 million Americans age 65 and older, according to the Alzheimer's Association. Current diagnostic tests typically measure the levels of two proteins -- amyloid beta (Aβ) and phosphorylated tau (p-tau) -- in blood or spinal fluid. While these biomarkers are widely used, they may not fully reflect the earliest biological changes that occur as the disease develops.

Researchers at Scripps Research have now introduced a different type of blood test that focuses on how proteins are folded in the bloodstream rather than how much of them is present. Their findings, published in Nature Aging on February 27, 2026, show that structural differences in three plasma proteins are strongly linked to Alzheimer's status. These changes allowed scientists to accurately distinguish cognitively normal individuals from those with Alzheimer's and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The method could eventually allow diagnosis and treatment to begin earlier.

"Many neurodegenerative diseases are driven by changes in protein structure," says senior author John Yates, a professor at Scripps Research. "The question was, are there structural changes in specific proteins that might be useful as predictive markers?"

To read the full article by Science Daily, please click here https://buff.ly/SVSXCmL

03/13/2026

NATIONAL K9 VETERANS DAY

March 13th recognizes National K9 Veterans Day and the dedicated K9 units who've served since World War II.

A lot of things changed after the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941. We rationed oil, leather, and rubber. The military draft men into service. Women rolled up their sleeves and built war supplies. And dogs were called to duty. During the first world war, the United States took notice of the European use of canines as sentries, message carriers, and several other functions.

A private citizen, Mrs. Alene Erlanger initiated a program called Dogs for Defense. Along with the American Kennel Club and a handful of breeders, the group aimed to train the dogs for military use. By November of 1942, the military prepared the first Dogs for Defense for duty in North Africa. While they were gun shy at first, they proved to be well trained. As the war progressed, Dogs for Defense was unable to keep up with the demand, and the Remount Branch, Service Installations Divisions took over the training of the dogs.

Over the years, the military, police, and rescue have developed a variety of training methods for K9 units. Their training is tailored to meet the demands of the job, and each animal and handler carries out his or her duties to the fullest.

03/12/2026

Looking for a sponsorship that’s kind of a big dill?

Join the fun and SPONSOR A COURT at the Care Managers for a Cause Pickleball Tournament benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association on May 14th at Bosse, Natick Mall!

We’re bringing together care managers, professionals, and community partners for a day of friendly competition, connection, and purpose — all while raising funds to support those affected by Alzheimer’s.

When you sponsor a court, you’ll:
🏓 Showcase your business to an amazing community of professionals
💜 Support critical Alzheimer’s research and care programs
🥳 Be part of a lively, feel-good event that’s all about doing good together

Your name will be featured courtside as players serve, volley, and rally for a reason. So grab your paddle (or just your generosity!) and help us make this event a smashing success!

Sponsorship Opportunities, Tickets and Registration:
https://buff.ly/kCGPIb8
Click on "Reserve a Spot"

03/11/2026

💙 Happy National Social Work Month! 💙

Today we celebrate the incredible social workers of Clear Guidance who show up every day with compassion, dedication, and heart for the clients and families we serve.

Your guidance, advocacy, and unwavering support make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many. Whether you’re helping families navigate complex decisions, offering reassurance during difficult moments, or connecting clients to vital resources, your work truly changes lives.

We are so grateful for everything you do and proud to work alongside such a caring and committed team. Thank you for being at the heart of our mission!

03/10/2026

THANK YOU BEVERAGE SPONSORS!!! 🍹🥤

A big THANK YOU to our incredible BEVERAGE SPONSORS for helping keep the good times flowing at the Care Managers for a Cause fundraiser!

Your generosity is helping make this special event possible, and we are so grateful for your support. Because of you, our guests will be able to sip, mingle, and raise a glass while coming together to celebrate, connect, and support an important cause.

We’re proud to partner with businesses and community champions who share our commitment to helping end Alzheimer’s. 💜

Stay tuned as we continue to spotlight more amazing sponsors leading up to the event!

03/09/2026

Our very own Tammy Pozerycki, Director of Training and Education, recently joined Sarah and Erica on Episode 9 of the EPOCH Exchange podcast.

In this episode, Sarah, Erica, and Tammy discussed how dementia transforms relationships, and how challenging this is for caregivers, before proceeding to share advice on how to best communicate with loved ones with dementia.

To watch the video, please click here https://buff.ly/D2cmdOX

Learn about effective communication techniques for dementia caregivers with Tammy Pozerycki, a dementia care specialist with Clear Guidance.

03/06/2026

NATIONAL DRESS IN BLUE DAY

In an effort to knock out one of the top cancers causing death, National Dress in Blue Day on the first Friday in March encourages everyone to learn about the causes of colon cancer and raise awareness by wearing blue.

Much like the pink ribbon represents those lost to breast cancer, a blue star honors the memory of those lost to colon cancer. Continuing the blue theme on Dress in Blue Day, awareness efforts provide support through fundraising for screening, research, and awareness education.

Screenings are vital. Colon cancer often has no symptoms until its advanced stages placing its victims at higher risk if they wait until symptoms appear. Screenings are recommended beginning at age 50 and younger if you are at high risk.

03/05/2026

A big THANK YOU to our incredible food sponsors for supporting the Care Managers for a Cause fundraiser event!

Your generosity is helping make this special event possible, and we are so grateful for your partnership. Because of your support, our guests will be able to enjoy great food while coming together to celebrate, connect, and support an important cause.

We are proud to work with businesses and community partners who share our commitment to help end Alzheimer's.

Stay tuned as we spotlight more amazing sponsors leading up to the event!

03/04/2026

The Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC) and the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) are proud to present:
Brighter Futures: A National Conference on Adults with Down Syndrome and Aging.

When: March 27-28, 2026
Where: DCU Center in Worcester, MA
Website: https://buff.ly/C4MdKeM

CLEAR GUIDANCE Care Manager, Clorinda "Clo" Cottrell, LICSW, CDCP and Dr. Julie Moran, DO will be presenting:
“What If?” & “Now What?”: Navigating Aging and Dementia Care Needs for Adults with Down Syndrome.

Overview: As adults with Down syndrome are now routinely reaching old age, we are seeing incredible milestones—but also unique challenges. One of the most significant is the elevated risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. In this workshop, Clorinda "Clo" Cottrell, LICSW and Dr. Julie Moran, will explore how families and caregivers can build a roadmap for support from adulthood into the aging years. Attendees will gain insight into dementia-capable care, including practical strategies for supporting individuals after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis and essential future planning to ensure the right supports are in place for the journey ahead.

To learn more about Clo Cottrell and the services offered at Clear Guidance, please click here https://buff.ly/2b84YQ0

Featuring the latest research and timely information from experts on a range of topics related to adulthood and aging for individuals with Down syndrome.

03/03/2026

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH

Each year in March, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month focuses increased awareness on the needs of those with developmental disabilities. The observance also highlights their potential in schools, work, and home.

A developmental disability is a condition usually diagnosed during a child's development and before adulthood. Developmental disabilities impair several areas of development such as physical, learning, language, or behavior.

A variety of conditions fall into the category of developmental disabilities. However, early diagnosis is one of the keys to limiting the impact of a disability on a child's long-term development. Developmental milestones such as language, response to sounds, walking, and following simple instructions are just a few milestones in a child's development. Families and physicians monitor these milestones to identify possible delays.

Screenings also help to identify developmental disabilities. Before and after birth, a mother's OB-GYN and the pediatrician screen and monitor a child's progress.

The month also highlights programs and tools that assist those with developmental disabilities to reach their fullest potential. Organizations specializing in the needs of those with developmental disabilities are constantly improving access to resources and increasing the general public's awareness.

At CLEAR GUIDANCE, we never forget that loved ones with disabilities are whole people with tastes and preferences, talents and quirks. We holistically look at care management, health advocacy, and incorporate creative solutions and resources. We see each client as a human being with intrinsic value and seek to see beyond the day-to-day moments to their essence.

To learn more about how we can support you and your loved ones , please click here https://buff.ly/uGG4LLH

03/02/2026

IONIS SCRAPS EARLY CANDIDATE FOR ALZHEIMER'S IN POEPLE WITH DOWN SYNDROME
By Darren Incorvaia for FIERCE Biotech

Ionis Pharmaceuticals has pulled the plug on an early investigational treatment for Alzheimer’s disease in people with Down syndrome, marking another setback for a group of patients who are both at higher risk for the neurodegenerative condition and not served by currently approved therapies.

The California biopharma terminated a phase 1 trial of ION269 and has dropped the candidate from its pipeline, an Ionis spokesperson confirmed to Fierce Biotech.

“This decision was made based on multiple factors, including slow enrollment, and is not related to concerns with the study drug,” the spokesperson said.

After kicking things off in December 2024, Ionis has now shut down the trial with just one patient enrolled, according to the federal clinical trial database.

With ION269 shelved, Ionis is instead focusing on other “high potential programs” in its neurology pipeline, the spokesperson added, including a phase 3 program for a rare genetic disease called Angelman syndrome.

More than half of people with Down syndrome develop Alzheimer’s dementia as they age, with telltale bundles of amyloid and tau proteins forming in many of their brains by the age of 40, according to the National Institute on Aging.

Despite this increased risk, neither Eli Lilly’s Kisunla (donanemab) nor Biogen and Eisai’s Leqembi (lecanemab) has been tested in people with Down syndrome. These antibodies, the only two disease-modifying medicines for the disease, target amyloid plaques in the brain.

“Unfortunately, no one with Down syndrome was included in the clinical trials of Kisunla, nor in any of the previous trials in this drug class,” Hampus Hillerstrom, CEO of advocacy group LuMind IDSC, said in a statement when Kisunla was approved in July 2024. “So, we still don’t know if Kisunla or any other anti-amyloid drugs are safe for people with Down syndrome.”

While Kisunla and Leqembi have demonstrated their ability to clear amyloid plaques, their ability to slow cognitive decline is typically modest, and both come with a risk of a dangerous brain bleeding side effect called amyloid-related imaging abnormalities, or ARIA.

Studies have found that people with Down syndrome are at higher risk of suffering Alzheimer’s-related brain bleeds, and the appropriate use recommendations for both Kisunla and Leqembi advise not giving the meds to people with Down syndrome.

Lilly has expressed a commitment to testing Kisunla in Alzheimer’s patients with Down syndrome. A trial testing donanemab in around 60 people with Down syndrome is set to kick off in August, according to the federal clinical trials database.

A host of other anti-amyloid antibodies, specifically designed to reduce the risk of ARIA, are also in the works, including candidates from Roche, AbbVie, Denali Therapeutics and newcomer Korsana Biosciences. These antibodies, too, though, are not being developed with Down syndrome patients in mind.