Icon Barbara Smith shares her battle Alzheimer's disease in new book

Smith, husband discussed 'Before I Forget' at Miami Book Fair International

PEMBROKE PARK, Fla.
She is an international icon who is known for her fashion and style. Barbara Smith has created an entertainment empire over the course of her career.  

Now in her 60s, Smith and her husband, Dan Gasby, are taking on a different role, by advocating for people battling Alzheimer’s disease.

The issue is important to the couple, as Smith was diagnosed with Alzheimer's more than four years ago.

Gasby remembers the day they got the news.

"When we got the diagnosis, we were stunned, because she is still stunning, still beautiful, healthy," he said.

The couple shared their story in the book "Before I Forget," which profiles their rise to success in love and life, along with how they’re dealing with the incurable disease.

They discussed the book during the Miami Book Fair International on Sunday. 

"I like to find out what people are thinking and talking ,and how we are going to the next  level," Smith said, before her husband takes over for her.

 "Once we began this journey to look into the science of it, what people need to understand. So 20 years from now, they don't have to go through this,” Gasby said.