Several dozen Lakes Wales residents gathered at Water’s Edge of Lake Wales on Tuesday to release floating lanterns in honor of those impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. The event raised funds through the Alzheimer’s Association Longest Day initiative, collecting nearly $900 for care and support programs through the local chapter of the organization. 
Currently, more than 17,000 Polk County residents are living with Alzheimer’s, a brain disease that impacts thinking, behavior and memory. While there is no cure, recent FDA-approved treatments have been shown to slow the progression of the disease in the early stages. This makes early diagnosis education and outreach an important step in improving the quality of life for Floridians impacted by this disease.
The Longest Day is the day with the most light — the summer solstice – held on June 21. And it’s the day the Alzheimer’s Association calls on everyone to fight Alzheimer’s disease by raising funds and awareness for care, support and research. Learn more at alz.org/TLD. 
To access local services, support groups, programs, events and more, call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7Helpline at 800.272.3900 or visit alz.org/Flgulfcoast.
