Keynote Speaker Announced for 32nd Annual Chocolate Jubilee

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. - Oct. 17, 2016 - PRLog -- Tyler Leightner, a 22-year-old senior at Northern Michigan University, will serve as the keynote speaker at the Alzheimer's Association – Greater Michigan Chapter's 32^nd Annual Chocolate Jubilee. The "Masquerade Ball"-themed fundraiser will begin at 7:30 p.m., Sat., Oct. 29 at MGM Grand Detroit(1777 Third Street, Detroit).

The nonprofit organization serves 138,000 individuals and their families in Michigan struggling with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

In "Our Family's Story," Leightner, a resident of Marquette, Mich., will address the emotional and financial impact of Alzheimer's on his family, which, for generations, has suffered from younger-onset Alzheimer's disease. A carrier of the rare genetic link, he lost his 49-year-old mother to the disease less than a year ago, after a five-year battle.

In recent years, he has made it his mission to share his story, advocate and raise support for the cause. Currently, Leightner is the chair of the Walk to End Alzheimer's in Marquette. He is also ambassador for the First Congressional District and an active member of the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer's Network (DIAN), an international research partnership of leading scientists dedicated to studying the rare genetic mutation carried in his family.

Following graduation, the social work major plans to continue his education and pursue a career in the aging and dementia field.

"We applaud Tyler's dedication to all aspects of our mission. His wisdom and passion for the cause are reflective of someone far beyond 22-years-old," said Alzheimer's Association — Greater Michigan Chapter President & CEO Jennifer Lepard. "I hope all those attending the Chocolate Jubilee truly get to understand what families of those with Alzheimer's go through."

Additional remarks will be made by event Co-Chairs Mari Barnett and Marlene Emerson and Lepard. Following Leightner's address, guests will enjoy live music by Mel Ball and Colours, dancing followed by the grandly displayed and extensive chocolate tastings from18 chocolate exhibitors, including but not limited to MGM Grand Detroit, Angels Bake 'n' Cakes and A Serendipity Cakery, starting at 9 p.m.

For more information, to purchase tickets or learn about the live auction packages, which include a luxury vacation in Cabo San Lucas, passes to the 2017 Masters Tournament and tickets to Super Bowl LI, call 248-996-1050, visit http://www.alz.org/gmc or contact event manager Maureen O'Reilly at moreilly@alz.org.

About the Alzheimer's Association – Greater Michigan Chapter

Founded in 1981, the Alzheimer's Association – Greater Michigan Chapter is a private, nonprofit, voluntary health organization and one of more than 80 chapters across the United States. The Greater Michigan Chapter is headquartered in Southfield, with regional offices in Alpena, Grand Rapids, Marquette, Midland and Traverse City. Covering 60 counties, its services are available to more than 138,000 individuals and their families who have Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

The vision of the organization is to create a world without Alzheimer's disease while optimizing the quality of living for individuals and their families affected by dementia-related disorders. For more information, visit http://www.alz.org/gmc or call 248-351-0280.