Anica Leon-Weil is a solo mom by choice, the only child, and primary caregiver to her mother, Barbara, who is living with Alzheimer's disease. Her caregiving journey is shared through her Instagram account, @the.sandwiched.caregiver, where she connects with others navigating the challenging yet rewarding path of caregiving. 

Growing up, Barbara was a beacon of kindness and humor, deeply engaged in social justice, and passionate about the arts. She modeled a compassionate way of moving through the world, something that profoundly shaped Anica. Witnessing Barbara’s cognitive and physical challenges as her Alzheimer's progresses has been heart-wrenching, but it has also underscored the resilience of their bond. 

Anica’s professional life as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist involves supporting others through their emotional journeys. However, the reality of being a Sandwich Generation caregiver—balancing the needs of her young daughter, Ella, and her mother while managing her therapy practice—demands immense energy and creativity. The lack of societal support for new parents and aging adults means she often navigates these challenges independently, learning to give herself grace on the more demanding days. 

Recent challenges in Anica’s journey include navigating the complexities of assisted living for her mother, dealing with unexpected incidents that trigger anxiety and stress, and managing the impact of a COVID outbreak at the facility. These experiences have required Anica to balance intense personal advocacy with the art of letting go, a skill that she finds essential in maintaining her sanity while ensuring her mother's care. 

Anica's decision to join The Heart of the Solution's educational campaign is deeply personal. She believes in their mission to broaden understanding of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, emphasizing the crucial link between vascular health and cognitive function. As someone who shares her caregiving story to build community and offer support, she sees a tremendous opportunity to advocate for treatments that not only focus on prolonging life but significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers. 

Through her voice and advocacy, Anica hopes to contribute to a shift in how we approach Alzheimer’s care—prioritizing holistic well-being and the dignity of all involved. She is excited to lend her experiences and insights to The Heart of the Solution, helping to drive forward a conversation that is inclusive, informed, and compassionate. 

To support and connect with Anica, follow @the.sandwiched.caregiver on Instagram.