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Caring for a family member diagnosed with Alzheimer's can be physically, mentally and emotionally challenging, but for one couple, finding support has been key to battling the life-changing illness.Connie and Melvin Robinson have known each other since they were kids."At our 20-year class reunion, we realized we were madly in love with each other and had not even known it and got married two years later and have been together ever since," Connie Robinson said.About nine years ago, Connie said she noticed Melvin didn't seem quite like himself. A doctor confirmed the diagnosis."And he said, 'I'm sorry to tell you, Mrs. Robinson, Sgt. Robinson �� it is Alzheimer's,'" Connie Robinson said. She said she and Melvin joined hands and prayed.Then, in the middle of the night one night, a short time later, Connie said she called the Alzheimer's Association. Yolanda Wright is a program manager there."One of the things that is very common for caregivers is to feel very alone," Wright said.Connie Robinson said the Alzheimer's Association was a big help."Yolanda and the Alzheimer's Association set me up not to fail," she said.And from the start, Connie wanted to learn about what the couple would be facing."I've had so many caregivers say to me that, if I just understand what is going on or why something's happening that really gives them a good sense of OK, I can do this," Wright said. Connie said she's developed three circles, or as she calls them, families of support. "My first Alzheimer's family I met at my first support meeting. Those women are still my family today," Connie Robinson said.Connie said she noticed changes with Melvin, especially through the pandemic."He (Melvin) played his sax up until probably the second month of COVID and his routine changed because of COVID," she said.Connie offered advice for anyone starting on the caregiving journey. "Anyone who's out there that's starting this journey, the one thing I can tell them is �� the very first word I will tell you is patience —this journey is going to require patience," she said.Connie said with God, her families and the Alzheimer's Association, she and Melvin are making the best of life, day by day."When I took my vows 30 some years ago, I meant what I said when I said sickness and health because that man that's upstairs asleep right now, if the tables were turned, would be turning the world upside down to take care of me and I know it," Connie Robinson said.According to the Alzheimer's Association, these tips can help caregivers:Seek out caregiver supportLet family and friends helpJournaling - expressing emotions can help boost your moodTry meditation or yoga. It can help reduce stressCarve some time out for yourself, to do something you enjoy