CHICAGO, May 6 /PRNewswire/ -- The Alzheimer's Association has named legendary Chicago businessman Jerome H. Stone the recipient of the one-time Genesis Award in honor of the Association's 25th anniversary and as a tribute to the pioneering spirit of the organization's founders. Stone, founding chairman of the Alzheimer's Association and founder of Stone Container Corporation, will accept the award on behalf of all of the Association's original founders during the 18th Annual Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala on Saturday, May 7, at the Civic Opera House.
"Twenty-five years ago, the Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders Association was established with only seven local chapters - Boston, Columbus, Minneapolis, New York, Pittsburgh, San Francisco and Seattle," said Stone. "By remaining dedicated to the original vision of advocacy, education, support and research, the Association has grown to become the world leader in Alzheimer's research and support, with 81 chapters and 300 local points of service across the country."
Among those honoring Stone at the event is Princess Yasmin Aga Khan who founded the Rita Hayworth Galas in Chicago and New York City as an annual tribute to her mother who suffered from Alzheimer's disease. In addition, Chicago's CBS 2-TV anchorman Antonio Mora will serve as master of ceremonies for this year's gala, themed "Affair in Trinidad" based on Hayworth's classic 1952 film.
Since its inception in 1987, the Chicago Rita Hayworth Galas have raised over $13 million to support Alzheimer research. This year's gala will highlight the urgent need for research funding through a live auction at the event, and a special online auction called "Rally for Research" featuring unique experience packages. Funds raised will support Alzheimer's research, which is critical to finding new preventions, treatments, and eventually, a cure.
"The money raised and attention generated by Princess Yasmin through this event helps in our overall mission to increase the current pace and momentum of medical research, and brings us closer to achieving our primary goals: delaying the onset and progression of Alzheimer's, and, ultimately, preventing the disease," said Stone. "There is a new hope in Alzheimer's treatment and research, and this important progress must be conveyed, encouraged and funded."
For more information about the gala or to order tickets, call the Alzheimer's Association at (312) 604-2345. All funds raised through the Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala directly support research into the causes, treatment, prevention, and cure of Alzheimer's disease.
There are currently 4.5 million Americans diagnosed with Alzheimer's. As baby boomers age, the number of Americans with Alzheimer's disease could increase to 7.7 million by 2030. Not only is it a devastating disease for those afflicted and their families, but it also threatens to overwhelm our economy and bankrupt Medicare and Medicaid.
About the Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association, the world leader in Alzheimer research and support, is the first and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for Alzheimer's. For 25 years, the donor-supported, not-for-profit Alzheimer's Association has provided reliable information and care consultation; created supportive services for families; increased funding for dementia research; and influenced public policy changes.
Alzheimer's AssociationCONTACT: Media, Kate Meyer of the Alzheimer's Association,+1-312-604-2435
Web site: http://www.alz.org/