Our journey, rooted in Hózhó

Welcome to Memory in Hózhó, an educational healthcare initiative born from a deep personal connection and a passion for neuroscience. Our mission is to bridge scientific understanding with rich cultural heritage, offering a unique approach to Alzheimer’s disease. We are dedicated to empowering families, caregivers, healthcare workers, and community members, especially within the Diné (Navajo) community, by fostering balance and harmony in care through culturally respectful resources.

Inspired by love, driven by purpose

The inspiration for Memory in Hózhó is deeply personal. Witnessing my grandfather's journey with Alzheimer's Disease profoundly impacted me; he was my best friend. Coupled with a strong interest in neuroscience, this experience fueled my Senior Capstone project at Stanford. I aimed to fuse my culture and heritage with the STEM field, creating an impactful platform to support my community through this challenging illness.

Guided by ancestral wisdom

At the heart of Memory in Hózhó are core Diné cultural beliefs. We understand that 'language is another format of care' and that 'Hózhǫ́' (balance and harmony) is essential for well-being. 'Elders are sacred,' and 'change is a part of life' are principles that guide our compassionate approach. Furthermore, 'K'é' (kinship and relationship) emphasizes the vital role of community and family support. These values shape every aspect of the help we offer, ensuring respect, understanding, and holistic care.

A unique bridge of understanding

Memory in Hózhó stands apart by intricately weaving cutting-edge neuroscience with the profound wisdom of Diné culture. While other resources might offer medical information, we provide a culturally respectful digital tool that translates complex Alzheimer’s terms into Navajo (Diné Bizaad), offers pronunciation guidance, and crucial cultural context rooted in Hózhǫ́. We're not just translating words; we're translating understanding, making information accessible and relevant in a way that truly resonates with the community.

"You got this shiyazhii, you can do anything you want in this life, and I will be watching you every step of the way."

~ Shicheii, Paul E. Thompson