Caitlynne Kesty and Christie Fitzgibbons named co-chairs of 2024 Niagara County Walk to End Alzheimer's

The Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association announced Caitlynne Kesty and Christie Fitzgibbons will serve as co-chairs of the 2024 Niagara County Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Kesty is a purchaser at Amherst Stainless Fabrication and runs WNY Meat Raffles. Fitzgibbons is admissions manager at Our Lady of Peace senior care in Lewiston.

"I walk for my Nana who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2020 on top of having multiple sclerosis,” Kesty said. “One day, we will find a cure, and I will be proud to say that I helped do that. I walk for the millions with the disease and those yet to be diagnosed."

Fitzgibbons said, “I am truly honored to be able to be a part of this walk and to take one step at a time for a future without Alzheimer's. I walk in support of loved ones that passed with the diagnosis, most recently my Papa. I have taken care of many patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia throughout my health care career, and those patients hold a very special place in my heart.”

A press release stated, “The Niagara County Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be held Saturday, Sept. 21, at Reservoir Park in Niagara Falls.

“The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs. The Alzheimer’s Association provides 24/7 care and support to those living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers, and is accelerating critical research to combat this devastating disease.”

According to the latest Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures report, nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the U.S. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide unpaid care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In New York state alone, there are more than 426,000 people living with the disease, along with 543,000 caregivers.

To register or receive the latest updates on this year’s Niagara County Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit alz.org/WNYWalk.

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.