Robin and Roger Meltzer hosted a beautiful cocktail party at their fabulous Southampton home to kick off the Rita Hayworth Gala benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. Admirable philanthropic work is something these haute Hamptonites know how to do better than anyone else! Doc and I loved Robin’s gorgeous gardens and learning more about her personal commitment to the Alzheimer’s Association. Enjoy her KDHamptons diary below!

Robin shares with KDH, “I first became involved with the Rita Hayworth Committee because my mother, Gloria, has suffered with Alzheimer’s for the last 7 years. At this point, she is in the late stages of the disease with no recognition of who she is, where she is and no ability to take care of herself. She exists as a physical being without her personality. Alzheimer’s is a disease without a cure, but we are going to change that.”

Notable Hamptonites in attendance included: Martin Bregman & Cornelia Sharpe, Sharon Bush, Mr. & Mrs. John Catsimatidis, Chele Chiavacci, Somers Farkas, Deborah & Allen Grubman, Francine LeFrak, Philip MacGregor, Anne Hearst & Jay McInerney, Alexandra Lebenthal, Robin & Roger Meltzer, Marlyne Sexton, Nicole Sexton, Ron Wendt, Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia

KDH: What is your goal for the event this year?

RM: Last year, we raised $1.7 million and this year our goal is, of course, to raise more and actually reach the $2 million level. This is not an easy task in today’s world!

KDH: Who are this years honorees?

RM: Historically, we have been very fortunate to have an impressive list of honorees. This year is no exception, led by David Cordani from Cigna Corporation, who will receive the Corporate Award, and film producers James Keach, Jane Seymour and Trevor Albert, who have been named our Champion Award recipients.

The biggest, brightest blue hydrangeas were flown in from the Netherlands for the event by Ron Wendt Design! We adore Ron’s dramatic, luxe, colorful style…

KDH:  Will you please share more about the back story of the Alzheimer’s Association?

RM: 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.

KDH:  Will you share some of the highlights of the upcoming gala?

RM: Now, let me spend just a minute or two describing this year’s gala. It will be great!! Every aspect of it. There will be fabulous entertainment, spectacular auction lots, which include unique experiences in travel, fashion and in food and wine. The items are a WOW and there are things for everyone in your family.

KDH: Share the date of the event and how our readers can purchase tickets?

RM: Please join us on October 23, 2012, a Tuesday night at the Waldorf=Astoria. We all look forward to your being there. For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, and the event please visit www.alz.org<http://www.alz.org/> or call 1-800-272-3900.