Living Out Loud with Alzheimer’s: Greg Nelson’s Story of Courage and Clarity

In this deeply moving and hopeful episode of Message in the Middle, I sit down with Dr. Greg Nelson—an executive leadership coach, speaker, and writer who’s spent over two decades guiding others through change, identity, and purpose. But now, Greg is navigating the most personal change of his life: a 2024 diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, alongside a battle with lymphoma.

Rather than retreating into silence, Greg has chosen to share his journey out loud, with honesty, vulnerability, and a deep desire to help others feel less alone.

In our conversation, Greg reflects on:

• The moment his wife first voiced her concerns—and how his Alzheimer’s diagnosis unfolded
• What it’s like to live in the “silent period” of the disease, when he can still think and write
• How his identity is evolving as he learns to live with cognitive decline
• The grief and fear that linger like background music, and how he holds space for both
• The clarity and presence that this chapter of life has unexpectedly brought
• What he hopes to create, share, and leave behind—even now
• How his openness has impacted his relationships and his legacy
• A message for anyone supporting a loved one with Alzheimer’s

This episode is more than a story of illness—it’s a reflection on life, love, and what it means to stay fully present even when the future is uncertain. Greg reminds us that even in the midst of profound loss, there can still be connection, purpose, and beauty.

Marianne's solo episode on the book A Year To Live: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1938384/episodes/11937363

Follow Greg's journey:  

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregorypnelson/

https://www.gregorypnelson.com/

https://www.facebook.com/GregoryPNelson

Connect with Marianne:

• Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne
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• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966
• Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne

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