Eastern North Carolina Residents Mobilize for Alzheimer’s Awareness and Support in The Longest Day Campaign

Local Residents Rally to Support Alzheimer’s Association

Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina – Local residents across eastern North Carolina, particularly in the Coastal Plains area, are stepping up to boost awareness and support for Alzheimer’s and all other forms of dementia. The charge is part of The Longest Day® campaign by the Alzheimer’s Association®, an annual event that falls on June 20, 2024.

Raising the Curtains on Alzheimer’s and Dementia

The campaign, which falls on the summer solstice, the day with the most light, and amidst the Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month® celebrations, aims to shine a light on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Participants are gathering to organize various fundraising activities of their choice, all intended to raise critical funds and draw attention to Alzheimer’s care, support, and research programs.

Lee Patterson, a local resident, said, “This initiative gives us a chance to use our creativity and determination to make a tangible contribution in the efforts to combat Alzheimer’s.”

Campaign Activities and Events

Ever the enthusiasts, residents have planned a host of activities, from sports tournaments, card games, and hiking to baking and biking sessions. The activities are open to everyone and can take place anywhere friendly to each participant’s choice – be it at home, workplace, or community centers. Over 200 fundraisers are currently in the pipeline across the state, each unique and carry a personal touch reflective of the locals’ creativity.

The Longest Day® Goals

The accumulated funds will go towards the state’s larger goal of raising $500,000 by the start of summer. Katherine L. Lambert, Alzheimer’s Association Regional Leader for North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, in her call to local residents, said, “Join us in making The Longest Day season the biggest yet in 2024. Only a little creativity is needed, along with a desire to make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Together, we can make our light outshine the darkness of Alzheimer’s.”

About Alzheimer’s: Facts and Figures

Today, Alzheimer’s affects an estimated 6.9 million Americans aged 65 and above, with more than 210,000 living in North Carolina. Furthermore, more than 11 million people nationwide provide unpaid care to Alzheimer’s sufferers. In North Carolina alone, 373,000 caregivers offer well over 723 million hours of unpaid attention in Alzheimer’s care, valued at $10.9 billion. Alzheimer’s disease is now the fifth leading cause of death among individuals aged 65 and older.

About Alzheimer’s Association®

As a voluntary health organization, the Alzheimer’s Association® is devoted to Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Its mission is to lead the charge to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by pushing global research, promoting risk reduction and early detection, and enhancing quality care and support.

Locally, the Alzheimer’s Association – Eastern North Carolina Chapter, offers patient and family services, referrals, and educational programs. In addition, it provides opportunities to get involved and make a difference.

Howard Willis, a caregiver sharing his experience, said, “Their support groups and care consultations have been instrumental. I encourage residents to engage more in such initiatives.”

To participate in The Longest Day event and illuminate the fight against Alzheimer’s, all are welcome to register by visiting alz.org/thelongestday or by calling 800-272-3900. In order to receive an official The Longest Day shirt by June 20, participants need to register by June 5, 2024.