Myra Solano Garcia, diagnosed with Alzheimer's at 66, showcases the potential impact of the newly approved drug Kisunla, which may slow cognitive decline. While clinical trials demonstrated a reduction in mental decline for patients, individual results can vary greatly. Solano Garcia's background as a singer and college fundraiser highlights her vibrant life, affected by Alzheimer's that began in her 50s. Despite medication, the exact benefits of Kisunla for Solano Garcia remain uncertain, reflecting broader challenges in Alzheimer's treatment and the complexities of patient experiences.
"Things have just plateaued," says Myra Solano Garcia, 66, who developed memory problems in her 50s, and was diagnosed with Alzheimer's four years ago. "I can drive. I can take care of the house, I can cook," she says, "all of that normal stuff that people do." Solano Garcia credits the drug donanemab, which she began taking as part of a clinical trial at the University of Southern California.
"We don't have the ability to say because you've taken the medication, you haven't declined," says Dr. Lon Schneider, a professor at USC's Keck School of Medicine who oversaw the donanemab trial there.
Both Kisunla and the other approved drug, Leqembi, have been shown to slow down the mental decline of Alzheimer's by more than 25%. But that's in a group of patients; an individual may do much better, or not be helped at all.
Solano Garcia grew up in New Jersey as part of a Cuban-American family with lots of singers. She studied piano and voice in college. As a young adult, she made singing her career.
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