The Alzheimer’s Association (ALZ) continues to raise money to find the cure to the disease, thanks to the Walk to End Alzheimer event, held over 600 communities across the country. The raised funds also will go to helping people suffering from the condition.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 5.3 million people in the U.S. have the disease, and “it’s the only cause of death in the top 10 in America that can not be prevented, cured or slowed down”, occupying in the 6th position.
The disease is the most common form of dementia, it causes memory loss and reduces intellectual abilities, affecting people’s lifestyle. Some people believe it is a normal part of aging but that’s not true, although almost the majority of people who has it is 65 years or older. Also, it’s a progressive disease, that gets worse over time.
“It is a disease that affects the person, and their loved ones, with a diagnosis”, said January Tankersley, manager of special events for the Alzheimer’s Association, to Fox Report Daily.
The Walk to End Alzheimer is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research, says on ALZ website. It involves social, religious groups, and people teaming to help those who suffer the condition.
More than 450,000 people participate all over the country. According to the ALZ website, “there is no fee to register, each participant is expected to fundraise in order to contribute to the cause and raise awareness. The Alzheimer’s Association provides free, easy-to-use tools and staff support to help each participant reach their fundraising goal.”
According to ABC7 Chicago, “in 2014, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s raised over $764,000, but organizers hope to beat that number in 2015”. Minneapolis, Illinois, and Johnson City have recently held the walk. On Target field, people raised more than $1 million, the most of the 600 walks held across the country, says CBS Minnesota.
January Tankersly also said “the event is a great way for people to come together in their community to gain support and advocate awareness for Alzheimer’s,” according to WJHL News.
Source: ALZ