Alzheimer's Association Minnesota-North Dakota Chapter

Wendy Norcross and her husband Frank Wattunen of Ely, Minnesota are gearing up to complete their incredible goal of paddling their purple canoe in all 50 states to fight dementia and support the Alzheimer's Association? ????♀? Wendy was inspired to take action to support our programs and research to #ENDALZ after losing both her parents to dementia. Since June of 2021, she and Frank have taken their purple canoe to 49 states, making new friends, breaking the stigma of talking about dementia and raising awareness. Soon, they are heading to Hawaii for their 50th paddle! Read more about their inspiring story at https://lnkd.in/gaytT4dm. Thank you Wendy and Frank!

"A state dementia program manager could coordinate work across agencies, evaluate programs, reduce inefficiencies and identify gaps in services." #mnleg Thanks to our VP of Public Policy Robert Freeman for testifying about this important bill! Learn more by reading the Minnesota House of Representatives article at https://lnkd.in/gqSMbQei.

Whether you're looking to take control of your health or to learn more about critical wellness topics, this event is for you! Join us and our community partners for this great lunch on Saturday, April 5 in Minneapolis - space is limited. Register at https://bit.ly/43JKC2b.

We had lots of fun at Bean Bagz for Brainz on Sunday in Eden Prairie, hosted by our amazing Alzheimer's Association Young Champions - Twin Cities volunteer group! Thanks to everyone who joined us and our excellent emcee, Lisa M. Evanson. This cornhole tournament supports our dementia programs and research. There's still time to donate and help the Young Champs reach their goal! Give any amount at bit.ly/BeanBagz2025. ??

Last week, we held a news conference on our bipartisan bills to require coverage of FDA-approved Alzheimer’s treatments for Minnesotans under the age of 65 on private insurance plans. A special thanks to Julie Donahue, who shared her story about advocating for her husband Tim, chief bill authors Sen. Boldon and Rep. Reyer, and Sen. Abeler who spoke at the news conference. Watch the KARE 11 news story to learn more: https://ow.ly/mBoq50Vjje9.

March is #NationalNutritionMonth. Nourish your body and brain with healthier snacks and meals that you enjoy. Look for ?? vegetables, ?? leaner meats/proteins, ?? foods less processed and lower in fat. Doing so can help reduce your risk of cognitive decline. Get more healthy habits for your brain at alz.org/healthyhabits.

Join us and our national partner AME Church on Sunday, March 16 at 3 p.m. CDT for the 5th Annual AME Church Connectional Purple Sunday. During this free virtual program, you will learn about: ?? Our efforts to advance health equity through community-based research ?? Volunteer training opportunities and resources ?? How you can help educate your community about Alzheimer’s and dementia Register today at https://bit.ly/3Xl0DHT. #AMEPurpleSunday

On #WorldSleepDay, commit to prioritizing quality sleep. A good night’s sleep does a brain and body good. ?? Get more tips at 10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain: https://lnkd.in/eZBeeEJz

Our MN-ND Chapter's annual Purple Gala is scheduled for Saturday evening, May 3, and you're invited. This elegant fundraising event supports the Alzheimer’s Association’s care and support programs, advocacy efforts and dementia research. Enjoy a cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, our program, live music and dancing at the Renaissance Depot Hotel in Minneapolis. Learn more at alzpurplegala.org.

Now through Saturday, March 22, MARSHALLS LLC shoppers can give to the Alzheimer’s Association at checkout. ??? Every donation helps advance the care, support and research efforts of the Association. Thank you, Marshalls and its customers, for making a difference for families impacted by Alzheimer’s and all other dementia! alz.org/marshalls #ENDALZ