Match it for Pratchett!

Terry Pratchett, who has been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, has donated £500,000 (about a million dollars) to Alzheimer’s research. A loose coalition of fans, operating under the name “Match it for Pratchett,” is trying to match his donation, or come as close as we can. Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t just kill; first it makes people helpless, unable to understand their own situation. As other causes of death are pushed back, Alzheimer’s becomes a steadily growing threat to people who could otherwise continue to live long, active lives, and a financial and emotional burden on their families and on society.

If you will pledge to make a donation to a charity whose primary focus is Alzheimer’s disease, or if you’ve made a donation to one in the past year, please tell the person(s) named below and we’ll give you an “I match it for Pratchett” button to wear, to say that you support efforts against Alzheimer’s and to make others aware of the issue.

The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research is a good choice, having a high rating from Charity Navigator

The website matchitforpratchett.org is run by the UK part of this loose group and hasn’t been updated lately. This is a separate effort, though done with the knowledge and encouragement of Pat Cadigan, the founder of the coalition.

“Match it for Pratchett” is not a charity and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Terry Pratchett or the Fisher Center. We aren’t asking you to give us money. Please donate to the recognized charity of your choice and accept our button and our thanks.

Comparative information on several different Alzheimer’s-related charities is available at charitynavigator.org.

 
“So let's shout something loud enough to hear. We need you and you need money. I'm giving you a million dollars. Spend it wisely.” —Terry Pratchett, March 13, 2008

We aren’t “pushing buttons” at you. But if you’re committed to donating to a charity fighting Alzheimer’s, or have donated in the past year, talk to me (Gary McGath) or the person with the buttons at your local con to get your “I Match it for Pratchett” button. And if you'd like to be the “person with the buttons” at your local con and you qualify for a button yourself, talk to me.

Buttons by Nancy Lebovitz.