Kelowna Rockets partner for Alzheimer’s Research

KELOWNA – The Kelowna Rockets today announced a collaboration with Okanagan Clinical Trials, a clinical research group based in Kelowna, for Lace Up for New Alzheimer’s Treatments, an informational session on Alzheimer’s disease at the Coast Capri Hotel at 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 31, 2016.

Lace Up for New Alzheimer’s Treatments is part of an international campaign involving retired professional athletes that was kicked off in the U.S. at the time of Super Bowl 50.  Former NFL players teamed up to educate the public about the importance of clinical research participation for developing new Alzheimer’s treatments.

“Alzheimer’s disease is a major health crisis and a growing problem,” said Bruce Hamilton, President and General Manager of the Kelowna Rockets. “By participating in the Lace Up for New Alzheimer’s Treatments informational session on Aug. 31, I hope to increase awareness of the importance of participating in clinical research. I am excited to play an important role in this campaign.”

Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 700,000 people in Canada alone, and by 2031, it is projected that over 1.4 million people in Canada will be living with Alzheimer’s disease.

“We are pleased to partner with Bruce Hamilton and the Kelowna Rockets during our upcoming Alzheimer’s informational session,” said Dr. Kim Christie, Director of Research at Okanagan Clinical Trials.  “No new drugs have been approved for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease in over a decade.  We need patients and caregivers to participate in late-stage clinical research programs in order to get new potential treatments over the goal line.”

The international campaign is being led by former NFL player Solomon Wilcots and the MINDSET clinical research program, which is studying a new potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.

“Bruce Hamilton is an impactful addition to this campaign,” said Mr. Wilcots. “People look to athletic leaders such as Bruce to provide guidance and information regarding health and rehabilitation. Education and teamwork are required to help the medical community get potential treatments over the goal line.”

If you or someone you love is impacted by Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss, we hope you will join us. RSVP at www.LaceUpKelowna.eventbrite.com.

Event Details:
Wednesday, August 31, 2016 – 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Where: Coast Capri Hotel – 1171 Harvey Ave, Kelowna, BC V1Y 6E8, Canada
RSVP: www.LaceUpKelowna.eventbrite.com

For those outside of the Kelowna area, visit www.alzheimersglobalstudy.com to learn more about the MINDSET study and identify research centers near you.