Santa Barbara, CA. — Retired Secret Service Agent John Barletta will share his intimate story of serving President Reagan, his memories of the President and his thoughts on Reagan’s legacy at a special event hosted by the Alzheimer’s Association, California Central Coast Chapter, April 29 at The Reagan Ranch Center in downtown Santa Barbara.

In November, 1994, five years after leaving office, former president Ronald Reagan made a courageous gesture when he told the American people in a moving letter that he had Alzheimer’s disease, an incurable form of dementia.

“(Nancy and I) hope this might promote greater awareness of this condition,” Reagan wrote in his letter. “Perhaps it will encourage a clearer understanding of the individuals and families who are affected by it.”

Indeed, at the time of Reagan’s diagnosis, most people didn’t know much about Alzheimer's disease. Reagan’s letter helped to lead the way in breaking down that stigma and the myths that surrounded Alzheimer’s. Following Reagan’s disclosure, the ensuing years saw numerous high-profile politicians, actors, professional athletes and news personalities acknowledge their loved ones with the disease.

Harry Johns, president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association in Chicago, will join Barletta as a special guest. He will discuss how Ronald Reagan’s trust and faith in the American people changed the public discourse of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

The Alzheimer’s Association, California Central Coast Chapter, invites the public to attend this special event, which will be held 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Friday, April 29 at The Reagan Ranch Center, 217 State Street, Santa Barbara. The evening includes a rooftop champagne welcome followed by a reception and tours of exhibit galleries at The Center. Western attire will be welcomed.

Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at the Chapter’s website at alz.org/cacentralcoast. For more information, visit the website or call the Chapter office at (805) 892-4259.

About The Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. The California Central Coast Chapter of the association covers San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura and Kern counties. alz.org/centralcoast