Upper Marlboro, MD – Earlier this month the Alzheimer’s Association of the National Capital Area honored Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III at the Association’s annual “Brain Ball.” County Executive Baker was honored for his outreach, advocacy, and support of the organization on behalf of his wife, Christa Beverly Baker, who is a victim of dementia – a form of Alzheimer’s. This year's event raised $3.1 million to help find a cure and provide supportive services for caregivers.
“When Cis was first diagnosed with early onset dementia, our family did not know what to do or where to turn for help,” said County Executive Baker. “We needed guidance and direction. The Alzheimer’s Association was a tremendous help during a very difficult time. On behalf of my family and the thousands of caretakers in Prince George’s County and throughout the region, I want to thank the Alzheimer’s Association for its work to increase awareness about this horrible disease and for assisting families in need.”
Since going public about his wife’s illness in 2012, County Executive Baker and his family have dedicated their time and efforts by sharing their story in order to increase awareness about the impact of Alzheimer’s on families. To watch video of County Executive Baker’s speech and honoring of his wife, and his children who assist him in caring for Mrs. Baker, please visit the County Executive's homepage. To see photos from the Brain Ball, please visit the County Executive's homepage.
Furthermore, last week, Lesli Foster from WUSA9 aired the following piece entitled “A First Family’s Long Goodbye” about the Baker family and County Executive Baker’s role as “Caretaker-in-chief.” To watch this segment please visit the County Executive's homepage. To watch a Facebook Chat with Lesli Foster, County Executive Baker, and Ana Nelson from the Alzheimer’s Association of the National Capital Area, please go to https://www.facebook.com/WUSA9/.
As the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer's research, the Alzheimer’s Association is committed to accelerating the global progress of new treatments, preventions and ultimately, a cure. For more information about the disease, please visit the Alzheimer's Association website (http://www.alz.org/) or call their 24-hour helpline at 1-800-272-3900.
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