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When you’ve spent your life preparing for hard missions — jumping out of planes, navigating dense jungles in the dead of night, and carrying gear heavier than some soldiers — you don’t hesitate when a new mission appears. Even when that mission starts with something as small as walking into your kitchen… and not remembering why.
I’m 73 years old. A retired Green Beret. My body’s still strong, and my mind has carried me through some of the most demanding challenges of my life — from surviving a terrorist ambush and leading tactical operations in the field, to designing, building, and overseeing an operations center responsible for monitoring over 9,000 Special Operations Forces deployed across more than 100 countries. I’ve spent years managing complexity under pressure —and staying sharp when it mattered most. But recently, something has shifted. I started blanking on names I’d known for years and pausing mid-thought, searching for words that used to roll off my tongue. The changes were subtle, but they were there. And when family and friends started voicing concern, I eventually listened.
They saw things I was beginning to notice about myself. Not because they were being dramatic, but because they cared. Don’t brush it off or get defensive if the people closest to you raise a red flag about your memory. Pay attention. Their perspective might be the nudge to take that first important step.
That’s when I relied on my training and the instincts that have served me well my entire life — not the ones that say, “power through,” but the ones that say: pay attention, take action, and lead from the front.
I got evaluated.
Diagnosis? Early-stage Alzheimer’s.
Boom. New Mission acquired.
💥 Mission Accepted
I had a choice. I could ignore it. I could panic. Or… I could respond the way Green Berets are wired to do: face the challenge head-on, gear up, and go to work. — with determination, clarity, and action.
I chose option three. (Let’s be honest — it’s always option three.)
Now, I’m preparing to join clinical trials through Axiom Brain Health and the USF Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute, two respected organizations in Tampa, Florida, that are leading the charge in cutting-edge Alzheimer’s research and treatment innovation. This mission doesn’t require camouflage or night vision — but it does require strength, courage, and a willingness to be part of something bigger than myself.
And I’m going public with my journey. — Not for attention, but because I know firsthand how important it is to speak openly. Especially among veterans. We’re good at toughing things out — and sometimes a little too good at staying quiet. But Alzheimer’s doesn’t wait — and neither should we.
💡 Why Early Detection Matters
Let’s be clear: Alzheimer’s rarely announces itself with a bang. It starts with minor, seemingly random lapses. Forgetting conversations. Struggling to recall familiar names and losing track of what you were doing just moments ago. At first, it’s easy to dismiss. But left unaddressed, those moments multiply.
The good news is that science is making incredible advances.
We now have:
- Advanced brain imaging
- Blood-based biomarker testing
- Digital cognitive assessments, and more!
These tools allow us to detect Alzheimer’s early, when we can still act, plan, and participate in research that could change the course of this disease for everyone.
Early detection matters — for your quality of life, your family, and the future of treatment.
🎯 Why I’m Enrolling in Clinical Trials
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s — not yet. But there is extraordinary work being done right now by some of the brightest minds in neuroscience.
Current studies are exploring:
- Light therapies
- HBOT (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy)
- Immunotherapy approaches
- Cognitive Brain Training (CBT)
- Functional MRI
- QEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalogram)
- Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI)
- Digital tracking tools
- Even emerging treatments involving psychedelics and virtual reality
I want to be part of that progress. I want to contribute not only for myself but for the millions of others who will walk this path — and especially for my fellow veterans.
We are trained to serve a mission greater than ourselves. This mission is no different. It may not require boots on the ground, but it demands action, discipline, and unity. We need people to step up, speak out, and engage in solutions.
🧠 What You Can Do
If you’ve noticed subtle shifts in memory, focus, or clarity — or if you’ve watched a loved one struggle — here’s how you can take control:
- Get evaluated early. Not all forgetfulness is harmless. Ask for a cognitive screening, blood test, or PET scan.
- Talk to your doctor or VA provider about clinical trials and early-stage intervention options.
- Contact Axiom Brain Health and USF Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute. Both are at the forefront of care and research right here in Tampa.
- Start the conversation.
Alzheimer’s thrives in silence. Talk to your family, your friends, and your community. Let them in. Let them help.
🎖 The Mission Continues
Alzheimer’s is a formidable opponent — but it’s not unbeatable.
I’ve faced difficult challenges throughout my life. I’ve come out stronger on the other side. This will be no different.
I’ve chosen to confront this disease with clarity, strength, and a sense of purpose. To be part of the solution. To live fully, lead openly, and help others navigate their own journey with confidence and dignity.
This isn’t the end of the mission — it’s the beginning of an important new one.
If you’re walking this path, or if someone you love is beginning to, I invite you to walk with me.
This is the first in a series of “SitReps” I will provide.
We have work to do. And I’m ready. I have a checklist.
– I just need to remember where I put it.
For a public speaking engagement, or questions about this article email me at rcorson@tampabay.rr.com
This article may not be copied or reproduced in any manner or venue without the author’s approval.
