Alzheimer's Association To Recognize Outstanding Caregivers and Scientists At Sixth Annual Visionary Women Luncheon

TUSTIN, CA, May 18, 2013

On Friday, June 14, all eyes will focus on the caregivers and scientists dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with Alzheimer's and related forms of dementia. The Sixth Annual Visionary Women Luncheon, hosted by the Alzheimer's Association, Orange County, will be held at Rancho Las Lomas in Silverado. This memorable afternoon will include an appearance from Rita Moreno, one of the only entertainers to win an Oscar, Emmy, Grammy and Tony.

"Each year, women and men are recognized for their exemplary care of individuals with Alzheimer's. Some are professional caregivers, and others are family members thrust into this emotionally and physically challenging role," said Jim McAleer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Alzheimer's Association, Orange County. "All are deserving individuals rarely recognized for their accomplishments." Caregiver honorees will be announced at the event.

This year's luncheon also will highlight individuals fighting Alzheimer's through the organization's "Science and Research Awards," presenting a select group of scientific minds with research grants for seeking answers to the mystery of Alzheimer's. These high school, college and professional scientists are searching for effective treatments and clues to uncover a cure for Alzheimer's through cutting-edge research. This year's winners include:

• Researcher: Pinar Coskum, M.D. - Assistant Project Scientist, Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, UCI MIND (Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders) -$1,500 travel stipend and registration for the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Boston on July, 13 - 18, 2013

• Post Doctoral Honoree: Giselle Fazzioni Passos - Post-Doctoral Instructor, UCI MIND (Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders) -$1,500 travel stipend and registration for the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Boston on July, 13 - 18, 2013

• Graduate Student Honoree - Maria Torres - UCI MIND (Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders) - $500 cash scholarship

• Undergraduate Student Honoree: Haley Dunn - Biological Sciences, UCI - $500 cash scholarship

• High School Student Honoree: Alana Porat - University High School, sophomore - $500 cash scholarship

• High School Student Honoree: Kelly Burk - St. Margaret's Episcopal School, Junior - $500 cash scholarship

"This event has become a vital part of raising awareness for Alzheimer's disease here in Orange County, as we honor these dedicated individuals," said Kirsten Mangers, Chair of Alzheimer's Association, Orange County Board of Directors. "Caregiver honorees have been nominated by a diverse group of individuals and organizations and each one has a touching story. Sadly, the incidence of Alzheimer's is rising, not declining and that's why we are all working so hard to raise money to provide care and fund research."

According to the Alzheimer's Association, 5.4 million Americans live with Alzheimer's and that number is expected to triple by 2050. Alzheimer's also stands as the sixth-leading cause of death nationally and the fourth-leading cause of death in Orange County.

Guests this year can explore the rustic and historic grounds of Rancho Las Lomas, which include lush gardens, fountains and exotic animals. Rancho Las Lomas Owner Jeannie Lawrence was a recipient of a Caregiver Award in 2012.

An Artisan Gift Faire, featuring hand-crafted gifts, will open at 10 a.m. with a portion of proceeds benefitting Alzheimer's Association, Orange County. The luncheon and program begin at 11a.m.

Individual tickets are $100; tables are $1,500. Proceeds from the event support the Alzheimer's Association, Orange County's services and programs, provided at no cost, to local families. To nominate a local caregiver or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, call 949-757-3769 weekdays or visit http://www.alz.org/oc .

About Alzheimer's Association, Orange County Chapter

The Alzheimer's Association is the world's leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Its mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Since 1982, Alzheimer's Association, Orange County Chapter has been providing programs and services, free of charge, to Orange County residents with Alzheimer's and related disorders, their families, caregivers, and the community. Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative illness that weakens the memory and other cognitive and emotional functions. For more information, call the 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900, or visit http://www.alz.org/oc