Eat, Not Exercise, to Do Some Good: National Nonprofit Takes a Bite out of Dementia with Grassroots Campaign Targeting All 50 States

RADNOR, Pa., Sept. 29, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Many worthy causes ask us to run or walk a 5K to raise awareness of a medical condition, but not the Food for Thought campaign from The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD).  Instead of working up a sweat—or freezing under ice buckets—participants are invited to share some food and spread the word about the life-altering brain disease Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD).

"FTD is devastating for those affected. Yet it is little known and it is poorly understood," said Susan L-J Dickinson, AFTD Executive Director.  "It can take years for families to get a correct diagnosis."

FTD is the most prevalent form of dementia for adults under age 60. It is frequently confused with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and certain psychiatric disorders. Misdiagnosis is costly for patients and the medical community.

In its third year, the Food for Thought campaign is gaining momentum, with events now planned in 37 U.S. states. The goal is to raise funds to fight FTD, while raising awareness during World FTD Awareness Week from October 4-11, 2015.

"FTD affects a person's executive functioning and social skills, and eventually prevents human connection," said Dickinson. "Sharing food brings families and communities together," she added, "and these events foster a sense of connection for people facing an isolating disease."

-To support the campaign, search this list of events in your area, or donate the cost of meal to AFTD via www.theaftd.org/donate.

About The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration

The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration envisions a world where FTD is understood, effectively diagnosed, treated, cured and ultimately prevented. For more information about AFTD or frontotemporal degeneration, visit www.theaftd.org, or connect via Facebook or Twitter (@AFTDCure).

- Food for Thought is timed for the third annual FTD Awareness Week and the first to target a global audience. More than 10 countries across the world are taking part.

-Participants stage any Food for Thought event they choose. Examples: offering coffee and donuts at work while playing a YouTube clip, having a home cooked meal with friends, sharing family recipes on social media or partnering with a local community restaurant for profit sharing.

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SOURCE Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration

Related Links

http://www.theaftd.org