Hi my name is Darrell Gartrell. I, along with professional musicians Doni Donn (LF), Cassanda E.P. McWilliams (not shown), of Osaka, Japan, have come together to support our friend Gerald Albritton (along with his wife Mica, pictured) who is stricken with dementia. We are hosting a fundraising event, a dinner-concert in downtown Osaka on April 15, as well as this GoFundme campaign for those unable to attend but still wishing to contribute.

As many of you know, Dementia strikes down talented, skilled and personable individuals generally at middle age or older. It is a formidable adversary; an insidious disease that affects not only the individuals who suffer from it, but also their families, associates, and circle of friends who must bear witness to their decline.

And yet the burden of dementia extends beyond the loss of cognitive abilities; it steals a person's sense of identity, which diminishes their independence and quality of life. We are watching this happen to Gerald, a multi-talented singer, musician, and businessman. He is a 35-year resident of Japan who I have known since I first

arrived there in the early 90's.

Needless to say, his wife and primary caregiver, Mica, is required to adapt to the increasing demands of his changing needs, which can be significantly stressful. Further, financial strains only compound these challenges as medical expenses and costs associated with long-term care are putting them in a precarious financial situation.

Here is where we all can help my good friend Gerald.

Thank you!