CASSOPOLIS — Before the sun sets on the longest day of the year later this month, the Cass County Council on Aging will be working to raise awareness of a disease that affects several of its clients.

From 9 to 11 a.m. June 21, the COA will be participating in The Longest Day, a nationwide event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research. To raise funds, the COA will be hosting a pledge walk, flower sale and blanket raffle at its pavilion, located at 60525 Decatur Road, Cassopolis. The event is open to the public, and participants can register on the day of the event or ahead of time by calling the COA at (269) 445-8110.

The Longest Day is an event that brings together people and organizations from across the country to raise funds and awareness for the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association, according to the association.

“[June 21] is the day with the most sunlight, so it is the longest day of the year,” said Teresa Palmer, COA care services team lead. “We would like to shed some light on the disease of Alzheimer’s its self and raise awareness for the research and efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.”

Working at the COA, Palmer said she had seen many individuals afflicted with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other cognitive impairments. She said she had seen the toll the disease can take on those individuals and the family members that work as round-the-clock caretakers.

“It’s a stressful and lonely job to be a caregiver,” Palmer said. “It can be rewarding, but it is also stressful and exhausting. … It’s a devastating disease. I hope that we can one day find a cure.”

The COA does not have a fundraising goal set for the event, but Palmer said the organization is hoping to see many Cass County residents attend The Longest Day.

“We just want the community to come out and support the cause,” she said. “We mostly want to get public awareness and public support out here, so the community knows. Most families are affected by some sort of cognitive decline, and they are sometimes afraid to ask for help. There are a lot of services that are available if people will only ask for them. There are supports available.”

Having already invited several community partners to the event, Palmer said she is hopeful for a good turnout that will help bring awareness to Alzheimer’s in Cass County and raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Association.

“Show up and walk with us together,” Palmer said to encourage the community to participate in the event. “I’m really excited about this.”