DYEING TO END ALZHEIMER'S ... PURPLE NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD New York Initiative

Dozens of purple-haired New Yorkers gathered at Bethesda Fountain in Central Park this afternoon to raise awareness about Alzheimer's - adisease that currently affects 5 million Americans - including more than a quarter million people in New York City. Purple is the official color of the Alzheimer's Association.

Dyeing to End Alzheimer's ... Purple Never Looked So Good is a new initiative launched by the New York City Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association (The Chapter). It coincides with "Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month." All week long, members of New York City's Alzheimer's community, including family members, caregivers, members of the healthcare community and others, have been dyeing their hair purple in support of the event. Others, less adventurous but equally committed to the cause, have invested in purple wigs.

Among those participating in the photo were Lou-Ellen Barkan, President & CEO of the New York City Chapter, whose mother and father both had dementia; and David Hyde Pierce, award-winning actor and tireless advocate in the Alzheimer's community, who lost his father and grandfather to the disease.

Barkan said, "One of the most important things we can do as a community is raise the level of conversation about Alzheimer's disease. And fashion - purple hair, nonetheless - is a great conversation starter. By sharing our experiences in this way, we hope to shine a spotlight on this disease that affects 5 million Americans, including more than a quarter million New Yorkers. Rallying public support will hopefully lead to more funds for research and for care for the growing number of New Yorkers who need our help."

Photo Credit: Amy Y. Lee