Loretta Hagen

PAGGIES PATRIOTS held its forth annual "Day To Remember" in Ramsey NJ. This family holds an amazing event  at their home to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's disease and to honor and keep in our thoughts those who have been afflicted by Alzheimer's Disease.

There was a virtual golf game, virtual roller coaster, giant water games for the kids, a silent auction, a prize raffle and much more. The food was fantastic, the weather held out, and the people were wonderful.

The Greater New Jersey Chapter of Alzheimer's Association was also on hand, and it was lovely to meet President and CEO Patricia A. Lombreglia, Kenneth C. Zaentz Vice President of Development, and Eileen Winter Associate Director.

Loretta Hagen was joined by husband Gary Hagen on guitar, and Debby Maggiulli on  percussion as the musical entertainment for the day.

One of the most inspirational and emotional moments of the day, a reading by one of the grandchildren of Paggie, Michelle, who wrote a story to share with everyone, wonderful memories, and heartfelt reminders that these sufferers are the heros' in our lives.

The swimming pool was quiet during Michelle's reading with each child at the side of the pool holding a purple balloon to keep a friend or family member afflicted by Alzheimer's Disease in their thoughts. One by one the names on the purple balloons were read, and as Loretta Hagen performed the song she wrote about her Mom who is afflicted by Alzheimer's disease, Sundown Till Dawn the purple balloons were released. The faces told the story as they watched  the balloons drifting into the sky, and you couldn't help but be touched by the hugging, and tears as those balloons floated away.

You can help too, by giving a monetary donation, donating your time, putting  a team together for a memory walk, becoming an advocate for this disease. Please visit www.alz.org, and thank you for your support. And thank you to Paggies Patriots for a wonderful day!