Denise is the Program Manager for the Western Carolina Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. She has worked in the non-profit arena for nearly 20 years, with both the National Kidney Foundation and the American Heart Association prior to work for the Alzheimer’s Association. She truly enjoys working with all those affected by this disease, whether it’s the person who has been diagnosed, their families, or the caregivers to provide education, training, resources and raising awareness to let them know they are not alone in this battle.
Karen and Susie grew up in Swannanoa. Four years ago, they started participating in The Longest Day, that happens on the summer solstice where people across the world shine light on the darkness of Alzheimer’s. After the loss of their mom and grandmother to Alzheimer’s disease, Karen and Susie were delighted at the chance to get involved with volunteering, raising funds and increasing awareness, of how we can push back against Alzheimers, doing what they can to end this heart-breaking disease.
The Longest Day is all about love for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. On Wednesday, June 21–the summer solstice–you can team up with the Alzheimer’s Association and select any activity you love — or an activity loved by those affected — to help end Alzheimer’s. Together, you can help raise funds and awareness for care and support while advancing research toward the first survivor of Alzheimer’s.
Karen and Susie are organizing the 2nd annual Mountain Jammers – Jamfest in their community. This year’s event is scheduled for this coming Saturday, June 22 at the Buckeye Cove Community Center in Swannanoa. The festival is free to attend, there will be live music, yard games, and even face painting! They will raise money by selling hot dog dinners, cake walk tickets, silent auction items, bake sale goodies, and lots of their delicious homemade jams!
Enjoy this one-hour Living Well with Denise, Karen and Susie who share about the impact of Alzheimers, how to recognize the signs, talk about it with those showing symptoms, and how we can all get involved in making a difference.
Living Well with Denise Young, Karen Douthitt & Susan Gilliam on AshevilleFM, June 17, 2019
