This is the second year that I am organizing the Longest Day fundraising event “Bridge the Gap”.  I was so encouraged by the response we had last year.  There were 24 people who played bridge on that day and we ended up raising $1800.  The event raises funds and awareness for the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.

A diagnosis of dementia is both heartbreaking and very scary. My husband Bruce was diagnosed with the disease three years ago in May 2020.  We have spent the past three years finding out everything we can about this devastating disease and our now ever changing world.  This past year Bruce and I moved into the Village at Kensington Place, an assisted living facility, to help us manage the increased stresses of daily life.  Four months ago, it was necessary for Bruce to move into the memory care area at the Village.  Regretfully, Bruce recently passed away on Easter, April 9, 2023.

This is a  horrible disease! Watching my husband's cognitive, physical and vibrant personality decline right before my eyes is very hard to bear. The disease has also robbed our children, grandchildren and close friends of the Bruce they loved and enjoyed.  We appreciate the professionals who are always present to help and support us.  And we are most thankful for the dementia friends we have met on our journey who are courageously living with dementia.  

Today, an estimated 55 million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer's or other dementia's. There are more than 6 million Americans in the United States alone with more than 11 million friends and family members providing their care. We must take action now, or these numbers will continue to rise.  It is estimated that the number of people living with dementia will skyrocket to 78 million by 2030.  We have to change that!

The Longest Day is the day of the year with the most light — the summer solstice.  Wednesday, 6/21/2023 is the day this year I am committed to fighting Alzheimer's disease.  You can stand up to the darkness of Alzheimer's by joining me at The Manor Inn restaurant in Milldale, CT to play bridge and help "Bridge the Gap" to an Alzheimer's Free World.  Together we can do it!  

If you are unable to join me on the 21st, I hope you will consider making a donation to help the Alzheimer's Association support all those facing this horrific disease.                                                          

                                                                                       Thank you, Leslie Cotton