by Kylee Boyter
kboyter@cherryroad.com
The second annual Bingo Night to End Alzheimer’s is set for Friday, April 4, from 6-8 p.m. at the Snow College Richfield Campus, Sorensen Administration Building, Room 147.
“Last year, we raised nearly $500,” said Lisa Laird, event coordinator. “This year, we have a goal of $1,000.”
Attendance at last year’s event reached 25, and organizers are hoping to welcome 40 or more participants this year.
Laird shared her personal experience of caring for her mother and mother-in-law, both of whom suffered from memory loss in their later years.
“I shared caregiver duties for my mom. She had retired and bought a home near me. My sister’s family moved in with her,” said Laird.
Laird’s mother had frontotemporal dementia, a condition that affects behavior and language.
“Her memory and health declined for those last six years. Her personality did a 180—she went from fun, feisty mom to quiet and passive.”
Once a strong woman managing office operations, accounting, and payroll for several family businesses, her mother gradually withdrew from work, church, and family life. She passed away in April 2008.
Laird’s mother-in-law also experienced memory lapses in her final 10 years due to dementia.
“She forgot the cat’s name, Licorice, and bestowed him with many other great choices like Chittybago, Zhivago, Trivago, and more. Then she forgot my name, and I became ‘Dear,’” Laird recalled. “We took care of her from 2009 to 2019.”
Bingo Night to End Alzheimer’s is not just a fundraiser; it is a gathering place for individuals to share their stories and support one another.
“I did not collect stories last year, but several people shared that the only reason they came was to honor a parent or grandparent who had suffered from dementia, Alzheimer’s, or other memory disorders,” Laird said.
Dementia affects more than 6 million Americans and accounts for over 100,000 deaths annually, according to the National Institutes of Health. Increased awareness and understanding can lead to better prevention efforts.
As part of the event, games like ‘Name That Tune’ will engage participants while honoring those affected by Alzheimer’s. Additionally, a ‘Best Purple Outfit’ contest will recognize attendees who show their support for Alzheimer’s awareness.
“The Longest Day event is part of a global initiative to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research,” said Tracy HeavyRunner, program manager for the Southern Utah Remote Location, Alzheimer’s Association, Utah Chapter.
“If you wish, let’s bond, play bingo, and learn about services available to our loved ones and caregivers. You are also welcome to share your stories of how memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s has affected your loved ones. We are in this together,” said Laird.
This event provides an opportunity to make a difference, honor loved ones, and contribute to the fight against Alzheimer’s. Everyone is welcome to attend and support the cause.
