The Longest Day - An Event to Raise Awareness of Alzheimer's Disease - June 21

On June 21, 2013, the longest day of the year, dozens of people from the greater Buffalo area will join thousands across the globe to unite in a sunrise-to-sunset event called The Longest Day to honor the strength, passion and endurance of those facing Alzheimer’s disease. The Longest Day is a team event to raise funds to fuel the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association, and to raise awareness about the global epidemic of Alzheimer’s disease. Worldwide, more than 35 million people are living with the disease, and it’s estimated that close to 55,000 of them reside in Western New York. On The Longest Day, teams will gather to participate in activities of their choice, for 16 consecutive hours, to make a difference in the fight to end Alzheimer’s.

In Amherst, a unit from the American Contract Bridge League has raised hundreds of dollars for the Alzheimer’s Association for this event, and will play cards in the Bridge Center at 3362 Sheridan Drive from sunrise to sunset; at the Weinberg Campus at 2700 North Forest in Getzville, staff and residents are planning a number of events, including a parade, crafts and games; Blocher Homes (135 Evans Street in Williamsville) will be awash in Alzheimer’s purple: residents, staff and visitors are encouraged to wear the color, the home will be decorated in purple and will serve purple food throughout the day; and at the WNY Chapter office of the Alzheimer’s Association (2805 Wehrle Drive, Suite 6, Williamsville), staff, volunteers and supporters will make paper chains from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. to symbolize the link we all share with this disease and the strength we have when we work together.

For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, the local Chapter and The Longest Day, visit: alz.org/wny. A trained professional is always available to answer questions about the disease and association programs and services at: 1.800.272.3900.