TEDx Big Sky

We tend to view debilitating diseases as tragedies that shorten lives and disrupt the emotional well-being of loved ones. When Robbie’s father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, she became the executor of his will, his power of attorney, and his most-fiercely dedicated advocate. Through many years of struggle, little did she know this crippling disease would teach her 5 heartfelt lessons that have transformed her life and enriched her relationship with her dad and others.

Her story can provide profound, inspiring benefit to anyone who faces difficult challenges in their own life and family. And at some point, we all will. Robbie began her IT career in Silicon Valley working for companies like Advanced Micro Devices and Sun Micro Systems. During her years in the corporate world, Robbie’s mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Several chemo and radiation treatments later, her mother lost the battle with cancer.

This devastating event led Robbie to pursue a career in alternative therapies. She is a nationally certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, an Emotional Integration Practitioner, Associate Polarity Practitioner, Ontological Kinesiology Facilitator and an ordained interfaith minister. While tending her thriving practice, Robbie’s father developed Alzheimer’s disease.

She became the executor of his will, his power of attorney and over the last several years, has functioned as a fiercely dedicated advocate. Her inspiring story provides a unique perspective of the journey through the disease. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community.