began exhibiting concerning behavior, such as wandering off without explanation. Family members described the growing burden of his care, while incidents—like failing to recognize his own children—underscored the disease’s devastating progression. Even then, Fred Sr.’s real estate empire and standing in the community kept him visible, masking the severity of his condition for a time.

Meanwhile, Fred Trump Jr., Donald’s elder brother, faced a different struggle: a battle with alcohol. Known in his youth for his charm and a promising aviation career, Fred Jr.’s life veered off course as drinking became a serious issue. His dream of flying was abandoned after being terminated from TWA, and pressure from the family to join the real estate business only deepened his disillusionment. Fred Jr. ultimately died in 1981 at just 42 years old from complications related to alcoholism—a loss Donald later described as having