Our Story
Every 66 seconds, someone in this country develops Alzheimerâs disease. More than 10 million people worldwide have Parkinson's disease. The effects of these and other brain diseases reach far beyond those who are afflicted: Today, more than 15 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with dementia.
While these numbers are overwhelming, nothing compares to the personal experiences of patients and families dealing with the challenges of these diseases every single day. In the early 1990s, my father, Lou Ruvo, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Together we navigated the difficult journey of diagnosis and limited treatments available at the time. The disease ultimately ended my fatherâs life and changed mine forever.
After his passing, several friends gathered to celebrate my father's memory and, over dinner, decided to donate money for Alzheimer's research. After many years of hard work fueled by the dedication of wonderful friends and colleagues, Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health opened its doors to patients and their families in July 2009. We formed a partnership with Cleveland Clinic to bring the best doctors and most advanced research technologies to Las Vegas. One hundred percent of the funds raised by Keep Memory Alive support the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.
More than 20 years after my fatherâs death, the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health offers world-class care for patients, support for individuals and family caregivers, and, through groundbreaking clinical trials, the promise of more effective treatments. Our successes are attributable to the tremendous commitment of our Board of Directors; community leaders; a global community of expert researchers; and our wonderful staff, supporters, and volunteers. Never underestimate the power of philanthropy! With continued support from myriad events and generous, inspired donations throughout the year, we can defeat these dreaded diseases.
Although this center bears my fatherâs name, it is designed to honor every patient and family member who is impacted by brain disease. For their sake, we are working hard and making strides, and I am very optimistic. I invite you to join us as we work together to Keep Memory Alive.
