FSU Holds “Raise Your Voice for Care Day” to Support Alzheimer’s Foundation of America

In an email issued by Jonathan Gibralter, president of Frostburg State University, he talks about Alzheimer’s disease. “Alzheimer’s Disease is one that affects many people at any age,” he writes in the email. “Once diagnosed, the downward progression is often fast and there is little that can be done.” Also, in an effort to raise awareness on the disease and how it affects individuals every day, the University has introduced the “Raise Your Voice for Care Day,” which was held on Nov 5 in the lane center.  It was in collaboration with “Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Raise Your Voice for Care College Tour.” “Affected individuals are our loved ones and family and the Raise Your Voice for Care Day is to build awareness,” Dr. Gibralter states in the email.

Also within the email, Dr. Gibraltar lists a plethora of facts about “Alzheimer’s Foundation of America” and their overall purpose and goal. According to the email, “AFA unites more than 1,700 member organizations from coast-to-coast that are dedicated to meeting the educational, social, emotional and practical needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses, and their caregivers and families. Under AFA’s umbrella, these organizations collaborate on education, resources, best practices and advocacy —all resulting in better care for people affected by the disease.”  The organization expresses that when raising awareness, the results are that they will: “Help remove the fear and denial surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses”, “Lead to early detection and proper treatment”, “Prompt greater utilization of community resources”,  and “Ultimately improve quality of life”.  There is also a link leading to a page where people can offer donations to the organization.

The “Raise Your Voice for Care Day” took place from 12-4 pm in the Lane Center on November 5.  There were several different sessions that students and staff were welcomed  to participate in, one being a “Music Therapy” session where there was a “Q&A about songwriting and healing power of music with Honor By August’s Michael Pearsall.” Also, after the workshops were over, there was a free concert at 7:30 pm featuring the artist “Honor by August.”

By participating in the event Dr. Gibralter hopes that students learned more about Alzheimer’s disease and mental health in general, got educated, but also had fun in the process.