Alzheimer’s Association gives the gift of hope for the holidays

While known to many as a time of great joy, the holiday season can be a difficult time for those impacted by Alzheimer’s disease.

The large family gatherings and changes in daily routine that others look forward to can create extra anxiety for those living with Alzheimer’s, and by extension, their loved ones. But even though millions of Americans will be facing those challenges this holiday season, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, they can do so with hope.

“We have hope not only for ourselves, but for everyone else,” said Alzheimer’s Association Chief Science Officer Maria C. Carrillo, Ph.D., “because there are so many smart people around the world working on this problem. This work is done because we’re all trying to achieve a common goal, and that is better, more effective therapies for a stop to this disease.”

As the world’s largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research, the Alzheimer’s Association is leading the charge toward a world without Alzheimer’s disease. Through its International Research Grant Program, the Association has invested more than $475 million in more than 3,000 scientific investigations to date, funding some of the most instrumental research in Alzheimer’s science.

“And not only do we fund research and do research ourselves, but we also try to raise awareness,” Carrillo added.

Indeed, from national events like the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, to local outreach initiatives like its educational Brain Bus, the Alzheimer’s Association strives to promote brain health and awareness in every community to ensure that, one day, Alzheimer’s will be a thing of the past.

“It is important that people know that resources are available and that they don’t have to go through the journey of Alzheimer’s or dementia on their own,” said Kathy Heldman, development manager for the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. “We are here to help.”

The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline provides free support and guidance to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. For information, resources and support, call 1.800.272.3900 – day or night.

“As we round the corner into 2020, our organization remains as dedicated as ever to eliminating this awful disease,” said Heldman. “With the help of the scientific community and our generous donors, we will find a cure, and we will see our vision of a world without Alzheimer’s realized.”

The first survivor of Alzheimer’s is out there. Give the gift of hope this holiday season by joining the fight for a cure. Contact Kathy Heldman at 727.316.9379 to make a donation or learn more about other giving opportunities in your area.

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