Support Alzheimer’s Research


Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things
that you didn't do than by the ones you did do.
– Mark Twain

Since its inception the Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute has had at its core the vision of groundbreaking, collaborative, meticulous research leading to the prevention or a cure for this fatal neurological disease. Time is at the heart of this disease: 10% of people over the age of 65 can expect to be stricken with Alzheimer’s while 50% of those over 85 will have it themselves or be caring for someone who does. Appearances to the contrary, however, it is not a normal part of aging.

The State of Florida has given to each of us a gift of immense value, the establishment of the Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute at a critical time in our state and nation’s history. As 78 million baby boomers, the largest generation ever, move forward to join The Greatest Generation in retirement, the spectre of Alzheimer’s looms ahead for our parents, our grandparents – or for ourselves. In another 20 years or so, it will be too late to hold back the flood of the disease; now is when we must be seeking the answers to the complexities of Alzheimer’s and discover effective approaches to prevent or cure it.

Time is of the essence.

To continue the Institute’s critical research unabated in a year without state funding, we need your help. Please return the envelope enclosed for your convenience to make a gift or pledge of support so that our scientists can continue to work on your behalf; your investment in the future now will be priceless. Your precious dollars and time will help us save precious memories and lives. Thank you so much!

Please call us at 813.866.1600 if you would like to discuss a special gift or to find out more about specific needs in our research laboratories and clinic.


Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder—a disorder in which brain cells are lost. It is characterized by progressive loss of memory and cognitive function, such as movement control and decision-making ability. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly and affects about 18 million people worldwide—5 million in the U.S. alone. Although there’s currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, research is under way to find a new investigational treatment aimed at slowing the progression of the disease. The current medications are mostly aimed at maximizing the remaining brain activity. That’s why the ICARA study was created—to explore a new investigational treatment option.

If you are 50 to 88 years of age and have a diagnosis of probable Alzheimer’s disease, you may be eligible to participate in the ICARA study. Throughout the 83-week study, participants may receive the investigational drug, study-related physical exams and laboratory services at no charge. All participants will be monitored by a medical team, including a nurse or study coordinator and a physician. Ask your doctor if the ICARA study is right for you.

For more information, visit www.ICARAstudy.com
or call 1-888-818-MEMORY


Upcoming events

  • 4th Annual Hurricane Preparedness Seminar for Caregivers
    July 19, 2008 - Westshore Senior Center
    Respite provided)
    4102 W. Spruce St., Tampa
    For more info. call 813.319.4115
  • Caregiver Forum
    July 26, 2008 - Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute
    4001 E. Fletcher Ave., Tampa
    For more info. call 813.319.4115
  • Florida Council on Aging
    August 11 – 12, 2008 - Renaissance Orlando Resort
    For more info. call 850.222.8877
  • Florida Minority Health Disparities Summit
    August 13-15, 2008 - Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
    For more info. call 813.929.1000
  • 2nd Annual Financial Preparedness Seminar
    September 2008
    For more. info. call 813.319.4115
  • Byrd Birthday Party Celebration
    September 2008 - Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute
    4001 E. Fletcher Ave., Tampa
    For more. info. call 813.319.4115
  • 2nd Annual Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute
    Golf Classic – Celebrating Memories & Heritage
    Monday, October 13, 2008
    Celebration Golf Club off I-4 at Exit 62

Check out www.byrdinstitute.org for updates on events