Finding Clarity in Cognitive Decline: Author to Speak in Decorah

Quality journalism needs your support to thrive. Donate and keep the facts flowing. DECORAH — La Crosse author and Buddhist chaplain Sharon Lukert will give a presentation and Q&A, followed by a book signing, on Tuesday, July 1, at 7 p.m. at the Pulpit Rock Brewing event room, 207 College Drive. The free event is sponsored by the Oneota Valley Literary Foundation and the Decorah Zen Center, with support from Pulpit Rock Brewing and Dragonfly Books. Lukert's new book, Until My Memory Fails Me, blends memoir, mindfulness practice, and guidance for those navigating cognitive decline. Diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) due to Alzheimer's disease in 2021, Lukert draws on her background as a Buddhist chaplain and the shared experiences of others in the MCI community to offer stories, encouragement, and guidance—valuable not only for those with MCI, but also for anyone facing cognitive decline, along with their families and caregivers. She integrates her extensive experience working with Alzheimer's patients, decades of meditation practice, and training in emotional resilience into her life and her writing. She explains, "The book is intended to be an affirming guide to enhance a positive approach toward the emotional and spiritual aspects of facing a neurodegenerative disease." "We're honored to co-host this special evening with Sharon Lukert, whose presence and teachings have long resonated with the Decorah Zen Center and the Ryumonji Communities. Her new book offers a compassionate and courageous guide to navigating the complexities of cognitive decline through mindfulness—an approach deeply rooted in the Soto Zen tradition we practice. It's a gift to welcome Sharon to Decorah and to support the generous wisdom she continues to share," say representatives of the DZC, Laura Demuth and Lee Zook. Lukert's book includes mindfulness practices like Tonglen meditation and Open Awareness, as well as tools for building emotional resilience. Her perspective as both a caregiver and someone living with MCI offers a unique and compassionate approach. The event is part of Dragonfly Books and the Oneota Valley Literary Foundation's ongoing author series. For more information, visit dragonflybooks.com or decorahzencenter.weebly.com. Don't miss out on important updates! Subscribe to the newsletter for free and stay informed about local topics that matter most to you.