June 20 is significant for a reason other than being West Virginia’s birthday.  It’s also the date for The Longest Day, an event held each year on the summer solstice, which raises awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Association.  From sunrise to sunset, the event symbolizes the challenging journey of those living with the disease and their caregivers.  For this event, teams and individuals are encouraged to create their own experiences as they fundraise and honor someone facing the disease.

 

Whether dancing, hiking, crafting, reading, gardening or playing music, the sky’s the limit for activities to do during the 16-hour Longest Day event.  Teams can be made up of local friends and family or with people all over the world.  This year the GFWC Junior Women’s Club of Bridgeport is partnering with Riversong Spa, located in Bridgeport.  “Having Riversong Spa host activities that day has been a real blessing,” said Jaclyn Ruble, who has been instrumental in raising Alzheimer’s awareness in Harrison County and beyond.  “We plan to offer things that provide a mind-body connection in order to keep our brains healthy. These may include Pilates, yoga, meditation, and more.”

 

Ruble, who lost her father to the disease, moved to Bridgeport in 2010.  Originally from Kermit, WV, Ruble’s path to the northern part of the state took a few detours, but when she was introduced to the Alzheimer’s Association while walking at Meadowbrook Mall, she knew why she landed in this area. 

 

“The association has been vital to helping so many who suffer from the disease,” Ruble said, noting that she and her friends and family have raised over $20,000 to help end Alzheimer’s.  After a six-year absence, the West Virginia State Chapter of The Alzheimer’s Association is bringing The Memory Walk back to Harrison County on September 25, with Ruble serving as the local chair.

 

Being involved with the association has not only heightened her determination to end the disease, it led her to research toxins that contribute to Alzheimer’s.  Through that research, she found her voice, and ultimately, her career with Young Living Essential Oils, a company that is known for holistic approaches in healthcare and preventing illnesses connected with chemical use. 

 

Ruble also recently traveled with Senator Shelley Moore Capito and state representatives to Washington, D.C. to seek increased support for finding a cure, treatment, and prevention alternatives for those with Alzheimer’s.  She attended a Special Committee on Aging Hearing, where various speakers garnered greater funding for the cause that affects so many.

 

To find out more information about The Longest Day, visit www.alz.org.  To learn more about the GFWC Team events or to donate directly to the team, visit http://act.alz.org/goto/BridgeportGFWCJuniors. “The Longest Day is a very flexible program that promotes wellness while allowing participants to honor loved ones.  Money raised during the event will go toward finding treatments and cures for those with Alzheimer’s,” Ruble said.