Walk to End Alzheimer’s raises funds to rally awareness
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Local residents and businesses have raised nearly $34,600 before the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s, on Saturday morning at St. Jo Frontier Casino.
More than 300 participants, representing 50 teams, participated, many wearing purple or personalized shirts in honor of loved ones affected by the disease.
"What I want people to know is, don't be quiet. If you think something's going on, it's a doctor visit and testing," said John Anderson, Chair Committee with Alzheimer's Association, "Even though you might feel like you're on an island, you're dealing with the same thing hundreds of thousands of people are dealing with everyday, and there's so many resources that can help people."
The event carries new hope as recent treatments have progressed. There are medicines that can help slow the progression of the disease, and new blood biomarker tests approved by the FDA to help in early diagnosis.
"My mom passed away from Alzheimer's, and my grandma and I was her caregiver," said Mary Hopkins, Edward Jones, participant since 2016, "If I didn't have the support of my family helping with my mom, I don't know what I would have done."
The Alzheimer's Association Heart of America chapter will be fundraising through the end of the year to hit its goal of $1 million. Funds raised through the event will support local care programs, services and research. To register or learn more about services provided, visit alzwalkstjoe.org.
"We wished we'd known for our family members," said Liz Rowe, Executive Director of the Alzheimer's Association, "Our goal is to provide awareness across the community through this walk, as well as raise funds for care, support, advocacy and research. Every dollar helps."
If you or a family member are experiencing unusual memory issues, don't wait; call 800-272-3900. This is a nationwide number, open 24/7, staffed by licensed social workers and clinicians.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 7 million Americans are living with the disease, including about 122,300 Missourians and 54,500 Kansans. Nearly 12 million family members and friends nationwide provide unpaid care for those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
