Our amazingly skilled Dad passed away on 4/6/2024 from this evil disease that displays a rapid onset of dementia, rapid bodily deterioration, and death. 

In 6 weeks, we saw our incredibly cerebral and great hearted man decline with lack of appetite, lack of strength, extreme fatigue, constant repetition of words and forgetfulness . First it masks itself as anxiety and depression, as time rapidly goes by, metal disability and  frustration sets in. While he is unaware of his rapid decline the last two weeks of his life, our family witnessed his life brutally robbed before him. Diagnosed with this disease the Friday before his passing, this fast and fatal type of dementia must be researched and cured! While it could be genetic or sporadic , doctors believe it could’ve been linked to his dreams of being an avid hunter . Dad/Doc has hunted all over the world, including Africa, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. 

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and related conditions appear to be caused by changes to a type of protein called a prion. These proteins are typically produced in the body. But when they encounter infectious prions, they fold and become another shape that's not typical. the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that hunters strongly consider taking precautions. The CDC recommends having deer and elk tested before eating the meat in areas where CJD is known to be present. 
We are in the beginning stages of how dad acquired this disease and we are told it’s rare, however, we are being exposed to more awful stories on CJD and a GREAT and GROWING foundation to find out more and why. 
As we recover, our hope and mission is for no one or their families to suffer this disease. The more we enabled we are, the more disabled CJD will become. 
Rest in peace, our Dad and Chief , DR STANTON C SOUTHWARD and CJD victims. We will always fight for you and end CJD’s life instead!!! 

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