Memory Gala 2026
Friday, April 24th
Mark Arts. 1307 N Rock Rd Wichita, KS
Join us for an inspiring evening of creative fundraising and meaningful connection as we honor those courageously facing Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Together, we will raise critical funds to champion care and support, drive innovative research, and advance efforts in treatment, prevention, and ultimately - a cure.
6:00PM
- Cocktail Hour
7:00PM
- Served Dinner
- Silent Auction
- Live Auction
- Mission Moments
- Dennis Moore Caregiver Award
- Honorary Speaker
9:00PM
- Live Band
- Dancing
It begins with you.
Milestones
A year may seem, to some, like a small measure of time-only twelve months, fifty-two weeks. But for those affected by Alzheimer's disease, a year means everything.
For a patient, a year can mean getting the chance to see a grandchild take their first step or making precious memories with their partner and adult children. For caregivers, a year is a valuable gift. It's a chance to hold on a little longer, to adapt, to hope for a bright future with their loved one. For researchers and physicians, it's a window of extraordinary possibility. In just one year, groundbreaking progress can be made, like the recent approval of the first FDA-cleared blood test for Alzheimer's disease, which is making earlier and more accessible diagnosis a reality.
Each year brings new momentum toward treatments and a cure. At any moment, within a year, a breakthrough can change everything.
At this year's Memory Gala, we honor the milestones that can be reached in a single year, from personal moments of joy and resilience to scientific breakthroughs reshaping the future of this disease. Together, we reflect on what a year truly means and how, with your support, each passing year brings us closer to progress, hope, and lives forever changed.
Honorary Co-Chairs
A message from Doug & Kathi Stark and Jerry & Jan Aaron
"The compassion and generosity of this incredible community continue to make our dream of progress possible. Your contributions drive vital education, resources, and support for families, ensuring that no caregiver ever faces this journey alone and that those living with Alzheimer's have the chance to reach new milestones as we move closer to a world without this disease. We are especially grateful to share this year's Gala with our dear friends and Co-Chairs, Jan and Jerry Aaron, whose dedication and partnership inspire us daily. Together, we look forward to an evening filled with connection and purpose, honoring how far we've come and embracing the milestones yet to be reached."
Guest Speaker
Dr. Brent Beasley
Dr. Brent Beasley, Kansas City resident and physician, was diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer's disease at the age of 57, abruptly ending his 30+ year medical career and reshaping his family life. Alongside his wife, Cindy, Brent has become a passionate advocate for Alzheimer's disease research, sharing their story to raise awareness and support progress toward a cure. Though this diagnosis brought significant emotional and financial hardship to their family, the Beasleys remain hopeful, inspired by scientific breakthroughs that are changing the course of the disease. Brent's journey, from a physician who once cared for patients with Alzheimer's disease to becoming a patient himself, offers a deeply personal perspective on the urgent need for continued research, early detection, and access to emerging therapies. Brent is a voice of hope for others navigating Alzheimer's disease and its challenges.Dennis Moore Caregiver Award
Mark and Barbara Chamberlin
This year marks a meaningful first for the Dennis Moore Caregiver Award, as it is being presented to a couple, Mark and Barbara Chamberlin, in recognition of their shared Alzheimer's journey. Barbara is living with Alzheimer's disease and is participating in a clinical trial, while Mark serves as her devoted caregiver and is actively involved in caregiver support groups. Together, they share their story to offer hope, raise awareness, and remind others facing Alzheimer's that they are not alone.
By honoring Mark and Barbara Chamberlin, the Dennis Moore Caregiver Award continues its tradition of recognizing courage, dedication, and the power of connection in the face of Alzheimer's.
Thank you to our local partners for supporting the Memory Gala 2026.
Linda & Steve Murphy
Alissa & Dan Unruh. Cocktail Sponsor
Wichita SCHEELS. Photo Booth Sponsor
KAKE TV. Media Sponsor
Kim Garci. Valet Sponsor
2026 Memory Gala Committee and Chairs
- Planning Committee
- Doug & Kathi Stark - Honorary Co-Chairs
- Jerry & Jan Aaron - Honorary Co-Chairs
- Anne Bowman
- Angela Delgado-Sycz
- Paula Giles
- Lee Gray
- Monica Ingalls
- April Johnson
- Shonna Jones
- Teresa Kraus
- Aaron Lair
- Charlie Moon
- Janice Perkins
- Robianca Perry
- Kaleigh Post
- Mattie Sharp
- Alissa Unruh
- Kimi Valle
- Central & Western Kansas Board
- Alissa Unruh CHAIR
- Ricky Boyer CO-CHAIR
- Mike Zamrzla
- Dioane Gates
- Joe Parten
- Luke Sponsel
- Shonna Jones
- Paula Giles
- Lee Gray
- Monica Ingalls
- Elyse Sanders
- Zach Weast
- Josh Clinkscales
- Christian Wiley
- Stephen Benson Emeritus
- DeeAnne Fahnestock Emeritus
- Jim Roman Emeritus
Looking Back at Memory Gala 2025
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