Help us tackle Alzheimer’s – Alzheimer’s – Optimum Senior Care – Chicago In Home Care – www.OptimumSeniorCare.com
Join us for the 2018 RivALZ Blondes vs. Brunettes flag football game, which will take place on Saturday, July 14 at 2 p.m. In its 10th anniversary season, this event continues to thrive within the city of Chicago – uniting dedicated players and coaches as one in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Team Captains Rachel Lutz and Courtney Wonneberg shared their stories and why participating in RivALZ is critical to raising awareness.
It is estimated that there are more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2018 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, Alzheimer’s disease disproportionately affects females.
In 2005, in an effort to address these concerns, a group of dedicated women in Washington D.C. organized a flag football event to raise awareness and funds in hopes of finding a cure. Blondes vs. Brunettes®, which eventually grew into RivALZ, was formed. Since its inception, Blondes vs. Brunettes has expanded to more than 50 cities across the country and has raised over $9 million for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
In 2009, Blondes vs. Brunettes touched down at the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, where passionate and spirited community leaders from around the state came together in support of the Association’s mission. In addition to the players, both men and women joined as coaches, fans, and even cheerleaders.
In its 10th Anniversary season, RivALZ Blondes vs. Brunettes continues to thrive within the city of Chicago. Last year alone, the event raised over $57,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association.
Join us for this year’s event, which will take place on Saturday July 14 at 2:00 p.m.
For more information contact Rebekah Marquez at 847.779.6973 or rmarquez@alz.org, or visit act.alz.org/bvbchicago18.
Team Captain
Quarterback
Blondes Team
Team Captain
Middle Linebacker / Wide Receiver
Brunette Team
RACHEL LUTZ
COURTNEY WONNEBERG
How many years have you been involved with RivALZ?
Three years in Columbus Ohio before moving to Chicago. Since I have been living in Chicago, this will be my fifth game.
How did you become involved with RivALZ?
My grandpa passed away from complications relating to dementia. Soon after I found the Alzheimer’s Association and began participating in an Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s fundraiser to raise critical awareness and funds. However, I wanted to find a slightly more active way of getting involved that’s when I found Blondes vs. Brunettes.
What do you do to prepare for the big game?
Practices are the best way to prepare, but the social events are vital for getting to know your teammates.
Why should others get involved in RivALZ?
It is a great way to meet people with similar interests – I have made some lifelong friends all while raising money for a great cause.
How many years have you been involved with RivALZ?
This upcoming year will be year 10. I take great pride in being one of the few remaining participants that have been with the organization from the inception in Chicago.
How did you become involved with RivALZ?
I actually found it on Facebook after one of my friends had clicked on the link – the power of social media. My grandmother suffered from Alzheimer’s and it was beyond devastating to witness. I knew I wanted to get more involved within the community/the cause.
What do you do to prepare for the big game?
Spend a ton of time on and off the field not only my with teammates, but the amazing support system we have in Chicago. Preparing physically and practicing as a team is crucial to our success, however, we also enjoy having fun off the field together.
Why should others get involved in RivALZ?
RivALZ is an amazing way to make new friends AND challenge yourself. I cannot imagine how different my life would be over these past 10 years without my involvement. I have lived with other players, attended weddings and even celebrated births with other participants. The bonds of friendship continue after the season ends and we are off the field. Those perks are just in addition to us having the opportunity to promote the Alzheimer’s Association’s’ mission of spreading education, resources and support to those families coping with the disease.
http://www.optimumseniorcare.com/services/alzheimerscare.php
http://optimumseniorcare.com/blog/