HIGH POINT — Residents and staff of Pennybyrn at Maryfield teamed up for their first fundraiser in support of the 2016 High Point Alzheimer's Association. Monday, June 20, was designated as "The Longest Day" by the Alzheimer's Association.
Teams were encouraged to create their own experience as they raised funds and participated in an activity they love to honor someone facing the disease. "The Longest Day" is a team event to raise funds and awareness for the Alzheimer's Association. Held annually on the summer solstice, the duration of this sunrise-to-sunset event symbolizes the challenging journey of those living with the disease and their caregivers.
The Pennybyrn at Maryfield community participated in this event and used "The Longest Day" as its kick-off fundraiser for the High Point Alzheimer's Walk scheduled for Oct. 15.
Three activities were held throughout the Pennybyrn at Maryfield community: Rock-A-Thon, Bake-A-Thon and Taste-A-Thon. The Rock-A-Thon was held in all three areas of the campus. Each area had two rocking chairs that staff, residents and family members kept rocking from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. The Bake-A-Thon took place in Ilderton Hall. Participants submitted baked items and the winner was determined at the Taste-A-Thon. Dollar bills were used to vote for the favorite baked good. The top baker was Kathy Faltynski with her blueberry rhubarb pie.
"Currently over 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease with more than 160,000 right here in North Carolina. Every 66 seconds, someone in the United States develops this devastating disease," said Caitlyn Haffey, the Alzheimer's Association Western Carolina Chapter development specialist. "The Western Carolina Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association covers the 49 counties on this side of the state. We provide programs and services to those impacted, advocate for those who can't advocate for themselves and work to end Alzheimer's. Ultimately, our vision is a world without Alzheimer's."
"The Walk to End Alzheimer's is the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research. We are so grateful for Pennybyrn at Maryfield and their team and thank them for their continued support of the High Point Walk to End Alzheimer's," Haffey continued. "We cannot do what we do alone, we need the support of those in the community in order to put an end to this disease. Alzheimer's is relentless but so are we. On behalf of the Alzheimer's Association and the families that we serve, a huge thank you to the staff at Pennybyrn and their supporters for their efforts and contributions."
The next community fundraisers will be two bake sales July 26 and Sept. 27. The bake sales will take plan in Norcross Town Square at Maryfield Healthcare Households. Proceeds will also go to the Alzheimer's Association.