B. Smith Promotes Alzheimer's Awareness, New 'Lifesaver' Program

BRIDGEHAMPTON, NY — B. Smith, a restauranteur, model and television host whose namesake eatery in Sag Harbor was a well-known destination, is now shining her bright light to help others battling Alzheimer's disease.

Smith — her full name is Barbara Smith — was diagnosed in 2013 with early onset Alzheimer's.

And in the years since, she has become a face for those battling the disease; in 2013, she went missing in Sag Harbor and was found in New York City.

"Now, B. Smith's safety is ensured by the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Project Lifesaver program," a release said.

Recently, Officer Bryan Stoothoff, executive officer of the Sheriff's Project Lifesaver bureau, met with B. Smith and her husband Dan Gasby in Bridgehampton to enroll her in the program, officials said.

"Should B. Smith wander due to her Alzheimer's diagnosis, she can now be located with the watch-like transmitter she wears on her wrist. The transmitter emits a signal that specially trained Sheriff's personnel can track. Using this technology, search times have been reduced from days and hours, to just minutes," the release said.

Gasby spoke out in thanks, lauding Suffolk County Sheriff Vincent DeMarco for efforts to work with Project Lifesaver International to keep the most vulnerable safe and "bring loved ones home."

"As a caregiver, I know what 24/7 care means, and it's a tremendous relief to know that the Sheriff's office is just a phone call away should we ever need them to locate Barbara and bring her home safely and out of harm's way," he said.

According to Project Lifesaver International, 3,369 have been rescued so far. The program is run at a municipality level by public safety agencies; Project Lifesaver International provides technology and training, the not-for-profit organization said.

Also included during training at no cost is the use of the PLS database; completion of training is required for certification. Once an agency has become certified, they can begin to sign up clients, Project Lifesaver International said.

Photo courtesy Suffolk County Sheriff's Office.