Eldredge makes TV debut

Eldredge penned the song after learning about the progressing decline of his grandmother's battle with Alzheimer's. The telethon lineup includes Al Roker from The Today Show on NBC and actor Hector Elizondo, AFA's honorary celebrity chairman. "Together for Care" telethon will air on Dec. 4 in 16 major markets (visit http://www.alzfdn.org/telethon/details.html for specific airtimes) and the national webcast will be available for viewing at 9 p.m. Pacific at www.alzfdn.org.

"I've watched my grandmother struggle with this disease over the years," said Eldredge. "I have seen first-hand the devastating effects on my family and others. Getting involved and sharing my story helps me cope in some way. There are so many people affected by Alzheimer's, well over 5 million people, and I hope that this telethon raises awareness and much needed funds to help aid families in dealing with this struggle."

The Alzheimer's Foundation of America, based in New York, is a non-profit organization that unites more than 1,400 member organizations nationwide with the goal of providing optimal care and services to individuals confronting dementia, and to their caregivers and families. Its services include a toll-free hot line, educational materials, a free quarterly magazine for caregivers and professional training.

Raymond, written by Eldredge and Brad Crisler, follows the story of a relationship between a young man and an elderly patient at a nursing home who has Alzheimer's Disease. The woman mistakes the man as her son, affectionately calling him Raymond.