The Women of ‘Still Alice’
Julianne Moore, Maria Shriver, Kristen Stewart, Sandy Oltz, Lisa Genova, Dr. Maria Carrillo, Elizabeth Gelfand Stearns—these are some of the amazing women behind “Still Alice,” a movie that gives us a rare window into the experience of living with Alzheimer’s disease—a glimpse of the inside looking out.
Dr. Alice Howland (Julianne Moore), a renowned linguistics professor, starts to forget words. When she receives a diagnosis of younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease, Alice and her family (daughter played by Kristen Stewart) find their bonds thoroughly tested. Her struggle to stay connected to who she once was is frightening, heartbreaking and inspiring.
From the beginning of the screenwriting process, women have been remarkable catalysts for bringing the story of “Still Alice” to life. From Maria Shriver as an executive producer to a myriad of Alzheimer’s Association experts and volunteers, including individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, women worked behind-the-scenes guiding both script and character development. Alzheimer’s Association Chief Science Officer, Maria Carrillo, Ph.D., advised on the script to help ensure scientific accuracy. Alzheimer’s Association National Early-Stage Advisor Sandy Oltz, who was diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s at age 46, provided Julianne Moore with an understanding of her daily experience.
By giving a frank and open portrayal of just how devastating Alzheimer’s is to a person’s emotional and physical well-being; family and career; and all other facets of life, our hope is “Still Alice” will move more people join the fight against Alzheimer’s.
“Still Alice” is beautiful, frightening and powerful, and a reminder that Alzheimer’s needs to be addressed now. With women at the epicenter—both more likely to have Alzheimer’s and more likely to be caring for those with the disease—the Alzheimer’s Association and the women of “Still Alice” ask all women to help wipe out Alzheimer’s.
The My Brain Movement calls on 1 million women to use their amazing brains to help wipe out Alzheimer’s disease — one of the greatest threats to women’s health.
We believe women have the passion and the strength to make real change. By using our collective brainpower and voices, we can create awareness of the impact Alzheimer’s has on our health, our families and our nation. We can use our voices on Capitol Hill to increase funding for research and care. And we can make an impact by donating, volunteering and getting involved.
Together, we are stronger.