Thomas Laffey
Age 79
Allentown, PA - PSERS
Jewish Community Center of the Lehigh Valley

Thomas Laffey is a retired school psychologist, who has been living with Alzheimer’s for the past seven years. It affects his memory as well as his speech and understanding. Before the pandemic, Tom volunteered at a local memory unit because he wanted to be able to help others who were struggling with the same issues he is facing. He is no longer able to volunteer, but he continues to be active and social. He ran multiple times a week until about six months ago, and only retired from doubles tennis a few months ago. The highlight of his week is using his Silver Sneakers membership to enjoy working out at the Jewish Community Center of the Lehigh Valley under the guidance of a personal trainer. This physical activity has helped maintain strength, balance and coordination while also improving his mood and helping him sleep. Throughout his life, he has embodied the desire to serve family, friends and community, and to maintain the highest level of health he can. Despite his diagnosis and its limitations, Tom continues to have a positive attitude toward people and life.