By Kiara Velez
Ryan H., better known as RyanGamez6901 online, held a five-day long, 24/7 livestream digital charity, transforming his love for gaming into an entertaining way to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Association.
Ryan H. of Jacksonville hosted The Longest Day® livestreaming event on March 18 through March 23, fundraising for Alzheimer’s research by engaging with online viewers by live chat, and even broadcasting while he was asleep.
The Longest Day initiative raises funds and awareness for the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Ryan H. shared his motivation and personal connection to Alzheimer’s fundraising through the loss of his grandfather Ray, who was a respected police officer in Homestead, Florida before being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and later passing away in August 2024.
Playing a marathon of video games on his desktop computer, this gamer was able to create an around-the-clock charity event that was not only for a critical cause–but also a personal one.
Ryan H. recalled a touching memory of his grandpa Ray, that made it clear he had a mission to raise money to support the Alzheimer’s Association.
“My grandfather was a huge golf fan,” Ryan H. said. “Even in the later stages of his disease, one of my last memories with him was watching his face light up as he played a Rory McIlroy golf game on the PlayStation we got him.”
To Ryan H., video games seemed to mean a lot more to him, serving as an outlet for the long-time gamer to combine his love for fundraising, entertaining people, and something that reminds him of a meaningful moment with his Grandpa Ray.
“The fanbase reaction has been incredible,” Ryan H. said. “Last night, someone I’ve never even met donated nearly $100 while I was asleep. It’s amazing to see that kind of support from strangers online.”
Looking ahead, RyanGamez6901 has hopes for larger charity livestreams with The Longest Day, expanding charitable efforts by bringing together more creators to amplify support for the Alzheimer’s Association.
Ryan H. hopes his story inspires others to join their passions with fundraising for a great cause. “I have hope that some day, any day, there will be a cure for Alzheimer’s, so others don’t have to go through that,” he said.
Connect and support Ryan H.’s Twitch stream here.
Alzheimer’s Association®
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
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