Giving Back Magazine February 2020 | Page 17

concern and awareness of the disease. “There’s another particularly cruel aspect to the disease of Alzheimer’s, because in addition to destroying – piece by piece – the one who’s stricken with it, it ravages the life of the person caring for them,” Karen says. “I am grateful that I knew to reach out for help from the Alzheimer’s Association.” The gala will feature a Willy Wonka-inspired theme with live and silent auctions, and dancing to live music by the popular band Atomic Groove. The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Their vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. There are more than 60,000 people living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia in San Diego and Imperial Counties.  Add to that the number of family members and other caregivers who face the daily challenges of Atomic Groove David Inns helping those with the disease, and the number surpasses 180,000. These are the people the Alzheimer’s Association San Diego /Imperial Chapter serves. All money raised at this year’s event will fund educational programs, support groups and research in San Diego and Imperial Counties. For information about the Imagination Ball, go to www.alz.org/sandiego. FEBRUARY 2020 | GBSAN.COM 17