Rebecca Luna, a 48-year-old single mother of two, was living a busy life until she started forgetting things she’d always known. Two years ago, those moments of confusion led to a shocking diagnosis: Early-Onset Alzheimer’s, a rare form of the disease that hits younger people. Now, she’s opening up about her journey on social media and through a fundraiser, showing incredible strength as she faces an uncertain future.
At first, Rebecca thought her memory lapses were just stress. She’d sit at her desk, where she’d worked for years, and find herself unable to start her tasks. The computer screen looked foreign, and she couldn’t recall her usual routine. As these moments piled up, she sought medical help, and tests confirmed she had Early-Onset Alzheimer’s, a condition that will progressively limit her ability to live and work independently.
On her GoFundMe page, Rebecca shared what lies ahead. She knows this terminal illness may give her only about eight more years, and as it worsens, she’ll need support for everyday expenses, medications, and care for herself and her kids. Her TikTok posts have resonated with many, who’ve responded with kind words and encouragement, cheering her on as she adjusts to this new reality.
In a Yahoo interview, Rebecca described a scary incident that highlighted her condition. She left an egg boiling on the stove and walked a half-hour into town, completely forgetting about it. When she realized her mistake, she rushed home to a house full of smoke, narrowly avoiding a fire. That moment was a stark reminder of how serious her memory issues had become, pushing her to confront her diagnosis.
Despite the heavy weight of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s, Rebecca keeps a hopeful outlook for her children and loved ones. Her fundraiser and social media presence are ways to prepare for the future while inspiring others with her resilience. By sharing her story, she’s raising awareness about this rare disease and showing that even in tough times, positivity and connection can make a difference.