The Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado’s sixth annual Denver Purple Gala is returning this May. The event’s focus is to spread awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and raise funds in support of finding a cure. The event is chaired by Libby Weaver, Rosalina Diecidue and Annabel Bowlen. The sentimentality behind the Purple Gala hits close to home for Weaver, Diecidue and Bowlen; these women have dealt with the heartbreak of losing a loved one to the disease.
Bowlen’s mother is also currently fighting the disease. Weaver explains, “It’s one of the most heartfelt events I’ve ever been a part of and all of us on the committee have very personal reasons for being involved! In fact, I would venture to say everyone is touched by this disease in one way or another. Whether it is Alzheimer's or dementia, I think everyone can relate and knows someone affected! The goal is to raise awareness and money to end this horrible disease.” This statement rings true – according to the Alzheimer’s Association, almost 7 million people are living with Alzheimer’s in the United States. By 2050, that projection is expected to nearly double. I lost my grandma, Patricia, in 2018 to dementia and Parkinson’s disease. As the diseases progressed and my grandma slowly disappeared, I desperately clung to the memories I had of her when she was healthy and her. You see the ones you love, the ones who raised you, even taught you to read, fade away. The mind is a powerful thing.
Weaver describes her mom as “the matriarch of [her] family, having raised four children on her own. She was smart, healthy and exercised regularly.” Weaver adds how it was “a big shock” when her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The disease can creep up on you. Today, however, signs can be identified as early as 10-15 years prior to onset of symptoms. “There is now so much hope...where there didn't used to be. There are more ways to diagnose the disease and treat the disease. In addition to doubling the number of drugs on the market last year, there are many new and different types of treatment options that appear to have great hope,” acknowledges Weaver.
The results of the anticipated U.S. POINTER study are expected to be announced this year at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference. This study centered on how lifestyle choices impacted brain and body health in older adult volunteers living with a higher risk for dementia. Findings will help specialists and everyday people alike better understand the disease. Hope increases with each new study, method, conversation, legislative bill, test and treatment that becomes available. Hope is in the miracles, the courage and the love encompassing each individual affected. Weaver clarifies that her “number one reason for getting involved...[is] to spread the awareness.”
In 2024, the Alzheimer’s Association raised $100 million dollars. Weaver remarks: “In fact, the Alzheimer's Association is the global leader in medical research today... They are also advocates at the federal level.” Oftentimes, individuals administering care for those dealing with cognitive impairments are uncompensated for their work. “The Alzheimer's Association Colorado Chapter offers critical help and support locally for those going through the disease and their care-takers,” says Weaver. In reference to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 11 million Americans deliver unpaid care for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. This staggering statistic is another example of how many people are truly touched by memory diseases. But, in the shadows of the unknown exists a glimmer of hope, and hope is a powerful thing.
The Denver Purple Gala will be held on May 31 at Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. Buy your tickets online at the Alzheimer's Association of Colorado’s website.