Hudson Valley Woman Wins Major Award for Volunteerism While Fighting Degenerative Disease

A Hudson Valley woman has received a major award for her selfless volunteerism amidst her own fight with dementia.

The Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) awarded 56-year-old Kathleen Anduze, of Pleasant Valley, with the LBDA Dorothy Mangurian Volunteer of the Year Award.

Anduze was recognized for her outstanding volunteer contributions throughout the past year to help build Lewy body dementia (LBD) awareness, and support the non-profit LBDA, despite her battle with the degenerative disease.

LBD is a disease with no cure. Many that are diagnosed experience increasing hallucinations, paranoia, confusion, and have trouble focusing. Many also deal with physical tremors, body rigidity, and have trouble swallowing.

Anduze is a former registered nurse and nursing director. She lives in Dutchess County with her husband and three children. According to the LBDA website, she was diagnosed with LBD at the age of 51.

"Despite the fact that Kathleen suffers from Lewy body dementia, she has been a tireless supporter, contributing a painting for LBDA's holiday cards, and organizing and participating in fundraisers, including a Lick-it for Lewy Ice Cream Social,” LBDA CEO Michael Koehler said in a press release.

The LBDA is the only organization in the country that is solely dedicated to improving the lives of the estimated 1.4 million LBD families.