Alzheimer's Association invites Niagara County residents to join 'Walk to End Alzheimer's'

‘Walk to End Alzheimer’s’ is world’s largest event dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support, research

The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting Niagara County residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” on Saturday, Sept. 9, at Reservoir State Park. Registration will begin at 10 a.m., with the opening ceremony and walk at 11 a.m.

“We’re closer than ever to stopping Alzheimer’s,” said Lynn Westcott, senior director of development at the WNY chapter. “We hope that everyone in our community can join us by starting a team to help the Alzheimer’s Association raise awareness and funds for families facing the disease today, take more steps toward treatments and finally ending this disease.”

A press release noted, “More than 6 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 care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In New York alone, there are more than 410,000 people living with the disease, and 580,000 caregivers.

The walk is personal for Erika Benton, whose team, “Hoffman’s Hellions,” is one of the top fundraisers for the Niagara Walk.

“I decided to participate this year because my stepdad, Ken Hoffman, was diagnosed recently,” she said. “We are seeing how fast and furious this disease can be and how people respond differently to what is available for treatment. We need more options and more solutions.”

Benton said she is also walking in honor of three other family members living with Alzheimer’s, plus the family members of several friends.

Photos from last year's Niagara County "Walk to End Alzheimer's" (Submitted by the Alzheimer's Association)

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The press release stated, “On walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony, a mission-focused experience that signifies solidarity in the fight against the disease. The colors of the Promise Garden flowers represent people’s connection to Alzheimer’s – their personal reasons to end the disease.

“Significantly, the funds raised through the ‘Walk to End Alzheimer’s’ ensure the programs and services provided by the Alzheimer’s Association are free to all who need them, in addition to funding the research and advocacy efforts which have resulted in new treatments for people living in the early stage.”

This year’s WNY Walk to End Alzheimer’s is presented by Uniland. To register or receive the latest updates on the event, visit act.alz.org/niagara. To learn more about the planning committee or sponsorship opportunities, contact Westcott at [email protected] or 716-440-4251.

The Alzheimer’s Association “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association has mobilized millions of Americans in the event.

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.