"It's going to be interesting... Whatever happens in this year is the future. What has been given to me has been given to me. It's not the worst thing. It's a lifestyle that's totally changed. But we're alive... I want to continue to the best I can be", says Barbara. Restaurateur, author, celebrity chef, model, entrepreneur B. Smith is meeting a new challenge since being diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's disease. In a new book penned by Barbara Smith and her husband Dan Gasby, Before I Forget the couple share their journey as a caregiver and care recipient. Teamed with Vanity Fair Editor and author Michael Schnayerson, the book is equal parts love story, memoir and manual with informative chapters on Alzheimer's research, stages of dementia and caregiving.
Barbara began her culinary education in her mother's Pennsylvania kitchen. The dark statuesque beauty came to New York City in the 70s to pursue show-business. She found success as an actress, singer and model. Barbara landed as the first African American model on the cover of Mademoiselle magazine. Her first love of cooking and entertaining led to a successful career as a restaurateur and cookbook author. A native New Yorker Dan rose from rough Bed Stuy beginnings to a become prominent businessman in television media sales. The loving couple made a dynamic business team with B. Smith restaurants in Sag Harbor, New York City and Washington, DC, lifestyle products, a television show and magazine.
The book shines light on extensive resources for caregiver and care recipient on medical advances, healthy living and legislation from a personal perspective. Dan honestly recounts his imperfections and courage in his role as caregiver dealing with sun downing, wandering, hoarding and support services. Barbara and Dan are fearless activists in sharing their story and giving a public face to early onset dementia. The couple received the Championship Award from the Alzheimer's Association at last year's Rita Hayworth Gala. Dan shares, "Alzheimer's is an overwhelming and devastating disease. We've got to put a line in the sand and do what we can to make a difference. If sharing our story helps one person, it's worth it."
Alzheimer Gala photo courtesy Owen Hoffman Photography