The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting North Olympic Peninsula residents to unite in a movement to reclaim the future for millions by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
The Sequim Boys & Girls Club will be the site of Walk at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s is more than a walk. It is an experience for 380 participants in Sequim who will learn about Alzheimer’s disease and how to get involved with this critical cause, from advocacy opportunities, the latest in Alzheimer’s research and clinical trial enrollment to support programs and services. Each walker also will join in a meaningful ceremony to honor those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and is now the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. As baby boomers age, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today’s more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s. In addition to the three-mile walk participants will enjoy entertainment, meet corporate sponsors and take part in a special tribute to those who have experienced or are experiencing Alzheimer’s. Start or join a team today at alz.org/walk.
Currently there are more than 150,000 people in Washington who have Alzheimer’s or a related dementias, almost half of whom have not received a formal diagnosis. Annually, over 350,000 family members and friends provide in excess of 368 million hours of unpaid care. These numbers are expected to triple by 2050.
“There has never been a greater need for the citizens of the North Olympic Peninsula to join in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease by participating in Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” said Bob Le Roy, the Alzheimer’s Association’s CEO.
“Funds raised will provide care and support services to the 150,000 residents of Washington living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, while also contributing to advancing critically-needed research.”
About the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s:
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, to end Alzheimer’s.
Keri Pollock, the Communications Director at the Alzheimer’s Association, Western & Central Washington State Chapter, noted, “Last year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s raised over $25,000 in support of Alzheimer’s programs, services and research. This year’s goal is $28,940. Funds raised support programs and services that benefit individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias such as our 24/7 Helpline: 800-272-3900, support groups, care consultation, education and training, early stage memory loss programs, online resources and lending library, advocacy and public policy work and investment in research.”
Pollock added, “All of our Walks to End Alzheimer’s are family- and dog-friendly. The Walks are more like reunions and celebrations of help and hope in support of those affected by a progressive, fatal disease. Families soon realize they are not alone. Each walker will also join in a meaningful tribute ceremony — the Promise Garden — to honor those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.”
About the Alzheimer’s Association:
The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Its 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.
