The Longest Day To Support Alzheimer’s Patients And Their Caregivers

The summer solstice is the longest day of the year, and it is not just for baseball games and backyard barbecues. Every year on the summer solstice, the Alzheimer’s Association hosts “The Longest Day,” which is a team event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s. This year, teams from all over the world participated in activities such hiking, karaoke, baking and bridge playing to support someone suffering from the disease. The event took place between sunrise and sunset on June 21st, and the duration symbolizes the challenging journey that those with disease and their caregivers have to face.

“For those facing Alzheimer’s every day is the longest day. The Longest Day honors the strength, heart and endurance of people with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. We want to demonstrate in a meaningful way that they are not alone,” explained Angela Geiger, Chief Strategy Officer at the Alzheimer’s Association.

Alzheimer’s disease represents a triple threat that includes enormous health costs, soaring prevalence and a lack of viable treatment options. There are 47 million people in the world living with the disease as well as other kinds of dementias, and the number is expected to reach 76 million by the year 2030 and triple to 135.5 million by 2050. AD is the 6th leading cause of death in the US.

This year, the activities included a motorcycle ride from Mexico to Canada, multiple cross-country cycling events, hiking 48 mountain tops and a rock-a-thon with rocking chairs. Others partnered with the American Contract Bridge League (ACBL) to show their support, hosted roller coasters rides, and cooperated with local networks to feature different kinds of music in the rehab facilities.

eBay also partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association once again in the lead-up to the event. For a week, the Association was the exclusive charity entity at checkout on eBay and everyone was invited to “favorite” the Alzheimer’s Association at www.ebay.com/alz. In addition, The Vintage Pearl launched the new “End Alz” Sun Charm necklace, representing The Longest Day and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

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