Mother-Daughter team raises thousands for Alzheimer’s research
DALLAS – October 5, 2016 – Inspired by a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, a UT Southwestern nurse and her daughter teamed up with a local nonprofit group to raise thousands of dollars for Alzheimer’s research.
Karen Martin, an R.N. at UTSW, and her daughter, Kennedy DeFrance, a college student, wanted to help when they learned that Karen’s father had early onset Alzheimer’s Disease.
Both volunteer with the Dallas Fraternal Order of Eagles 3108 (FOE), a nonprofit that supports medical research and community services, so it made sense to work with the organization.
Karen and the Order’s Chair, Tasha Mack, encouraged the Alzheimer’s Disease Center (ADC) to apply for a grant that the group would be awarding. Meanwhile, Kennedy took an active role in the Eagles’ fundraiser called “Umbrellas for Alzheimer’s.”
Their combined efforts raised more than $8,000 for the ADC.
“Words cannot express our appreciation for the generosity and support of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, said Barb Davis, ADC Clinical Research Manager. “And we are humbled by the amazing volunteering spirit of Karen, Kennedy, and Tasha as they spread the word about the need for supporting Alzheimer’s research.”
The gift will assist with community outreach presentations on Alzheimer’s Disease as well as other educational events hosted through the ADC.
“Through the Eagles, I’m able to raise money for research that will hopefully, one day, find a cure,” DeFrance said.
“You want to instill in your children the idea to give back to the community,” said Martin.
Make a Donation
If you would like to make a donation benefitting UT Southwestern’s Alzheimer’s Disease Center, please select “specific use” under the designation section and type “Alzheimer’s Disease Center” in the box. All donations are 100 percent tax deductible.