3.1 million pesetas raised to help Alzheimer´s patients

On behalf of the international community, Marie Robinson yesterday handed over a cheque for 500'000 pesetas to Venancio Alemany, the vice-president of the Majorcan Association for Families with Alzheimer's. Since September 21, which was World Alzheimer's Day, a total of 3.1 million pesetas has been raised in Majorca for the association. Robinson, accompanied by Maureen Rowland, Estelle Hat and Marcia Atkins, just a few of the many people who have helped to raise money at a series of events. On September 21, 2.5 million pesetas was raised by collection stations across Palma, a special bric-a-brac and arts and crafts fair held at the Coleman Hall last Saturday raised a staggering 476'000 pesetas and 155'000 pesetas was collected by fund raisers who manned a collection point in Santa Ponsa, bringing the grand total to 3.1 million pesetas. The Majorcan Association has been going for seven years and every year the amount of money raised increases, but the association's main concern is to increase public and local government awareness about Alzheimer's disease and attract more help from the authorities. Much of the funds raised this year will be spent on educational awareness campaigns and increasing the number of home helpers. For families having to care for elderly parents or relatives suffering from Alzheimer's in its early stages, coping with Alzheimer's is a heavy burden and requires round-the-clock dedication.