A Voice for Alzheimer’s Research
Sportscaster and renowned radio voice for the Wisconsin Badgers men’s basketball and football teams Matt Lepay and his wife, Linda, know all too well the devastation of an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis. In 2012, Matt’s mother, Lee, was diagnosed, and after a five-year battle, she succumbed in July 2017.
This personal loss offered Matt a reason to lend his voice, and his platform, to promote the essential research being done at the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Passionate members of the board of visitors for the UW Initiative to End Alzheimer’s, Matt and Linda are focused on spreading the word about the ongoing search for a cure and the emotional and financial impact this disease has on families.
“We didn’t have to go very far to find other people going through the same thing,” shares Matt. “Alzheimer’s disease takes an enormous toll on families, but thanks to work being done at the UW School of Medicine and Public Health, there is reason for hope.”
There are numerous ways to get involved in this worthy cause. For Matt, using his voice was key to supporting the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, one of only 30 such centers in the nation, as it works to prevent other families from going through the same anguish his family did. He also recorded a series of public service announcements for the UW Initiative to End Alzheimer’s, helping to expand community awareness of the vital research being done in Madison to end this devastating disease. While speaking out may have opened some old wounds, Matt was mindful of how important it is to inform and encourage others, so they, too, can contribute to the effort to slow the progress of Alzheimer’s disease.
“Buzzer beaters are great,” says Matt. “Last-second touchdowns, walk-off home runs. This would top all of that. I’ll say when, not if. When they can come up with an answer, that will be the greatest victory of all.”
Share Your Story
Did UW Health or the UW School of Medicine and Public Health have a life-changing impact on you or someone you love? Be part of the Wisconsin Medicine story by inspiring others with your story. Share it now.