Alzheimer’s healthcare crisis: EHE International donates display window at Rockefeller Center to help raise awareness

New York City Chapter of the Alzheimer’s AssociationMar 6 2010

Throughout the month of March, visitors to Rockefeller Center will get an unexpected lesson on Alzheimer’s disease.

“EHE International’s generosity is helping us raise crucial awareness about this impending Alzheimer’s healthcare crisis. With their help, we will ensure that all New Yorkers who pass by this compelling display better understand the severity of this epidemic and know where to go for help”

Thanks to the generosity of EHE International, a recognized national leader in employee and individual Preventive Healthcare Plans, a 115-square foot exhibit containing important information about the disease and the free services offered by the New York City Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will be on view in the EHE display window at 10 Rockefeller Plaza until March 31^st.

The display features the Alzheimer’s Association “Celebrity Champions” video montage showcasing stars who support the cause including David Hyde Pierce, NY Jets Coach Rex Ryan, Bryant Gumbel, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Wayne Brady, Dick Van Dyke, Olympia Dukakis, Jean Smart, Lea Thompson and dozens of others.

Other display panels include important information about where to go for help, and startling statistics – including the fact that every 70 seconds someone in the U.S. develops Alzheimer’s disease; by 2050, it will be every 33 seconds. There are 5.3 million Americans with Alzheimer’s and more than 250,000 live in New York City. The statistics are dramatically growing.

Lou-Ellen Barkan, President and CEO of the NYC Chapter, said, “In less than 50 years if nothing is done to find a successful treatment or a cure, 20% of all New Yorkers will either have Alzheimer’s disease or will be taking care of someone who does.

“EHE International’s generosity is helping us raise crucial awareness about this impending Alzheimer’s healthcare crisis. With their help, we will ensure that all New Yorkers who pass by this compelling display better understand the severity of this epidemic and know where to go for help,” Barkan added.

The New York City Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers many resources for people with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers:

• Support groups and educational meetings;
• Services for those in the early stage of Alzheimer’s and their loved ones;
• A 24-hour Helpline;
• The MedicAlert® + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return® program;
• Opportunities to get involved including fun and exciting fundraising events that support programs and research to find a cure.