On Thursday, November 6, 64-year-old Jack Fussell began his second journey across America – running a route that stretches from Tybee Island, Ga. to Monterey, Calif. – in a personal quest to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s disease. 

On Thursday, November 20 at 12:30 p.m., Fussell plans to stop in Macon to visit the Cambridge Court memory care center at Carlyle Place, Navicent Health. This is not a public event, but media are invited to attend. 

“We are honored that Mr. Fussell would take time from his trek across America to visit Carlyle Place, Navicent Health and our Cambridge Court memory care center. This neighborhood plays an important role for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, and we would love to serve as a template for future similar centers across the country,” said Elbert McQueen, Senior Vice President of Post Acute Services and Regional Development for Navicent Health.

Established in 2001, Carlyle Place, Navicent Health is the regions first continuing care retirement community. The Cambridge Court memory care center at Carlyle Place, Navicent Health offers specialized care in a structured setting for those living with memory impairments, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Residents, accompanied by 24 hour supervision, benefit from design features and innovative programs developed specifically for their current and changing needs. Services and amenities at Cambridge Court include private suites, assistance with daily activities, and personalized programs designed for family participation.

Fussell began running in memory of his father, whom he lost to Alzheimer’s disease in 2000. Hi first cross-continental run began in January 2012 and ended in August 2012. During his first trip, he not only raised awareness of the disease but was also able to raise more than $30,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association. 

“I simply want to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease to everyone I possibly can. I feel as if I have a purpose to do so and I am so lucky to be able to do this for the many people suffering from this disease,” said Fussell. 

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 5.4 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, and every 67 seconds someone in the U.S. is diagnosed. The Alzheimer's Association, Georgia Chapter serves more than 200,000 Georgians living with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as their loved ones. Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S., with no cure or treatment to slow its progression.

“Alzheimer’s is devastating. It’s hard for the individual that is diagnosed, but it’s really the families and caregivers that struggle the most,” said Fussell.

To learn more about Fussell’s journey, route and personal story click here. To learn more about the Cambridge Court memory care center at Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, please click here.