More than 2,250 people participated in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Charlotte in the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease at Truist Field on Oct. 21. Participants raised more than $750,000 to fund Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs of the Alzheimer’s Association.
“Many thanks to our dedicated Walk participants, volunteers, sponsors, staff, the Greater Charlotte community and surrounding area residents for coming together to take steps for all those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and all other dementia,” said Katherine L. Lambert, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter. “We appreciate everyone involved for raising critical funds for Alzheimer’s research and local support services.”
Team Cadwalader was the top fundraising team at this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, raising $45,583. The other top fundraising teams include The Sharon at SouthPark ($43,079) and Senior Living Communities ($34,610).
On Walk day, participants honored those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our 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.
Presented by The Sharon at SouthPark, the day also featured fun, all-ages entertainment and family-friendly music. The Opening Ceremony was emceed by Ann Wyatt Little and Tara Lane from Queen City News. The Finish Line Celebration was emceed by Ramona Holloway from Radio-One Charlotte and Pete Kaliner with WBT 1110 AM Radio. All four emcees participated because of their own personal connections to Alzheimer’s.
More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In North Carolina alone, there are 180,000 people living with the disease and 369,000 caregivers. Mecklenburg County has an Alzheimer’s prevalence rate of 12.5% in its age 65 and older population.
The Association is keeping up the momentum and continuing to raise critical funds and awareness with a goal to raise $850,000 by the end of the year. Walk Day may have passed, but donations are still being accepted through Dec. 31 at act.alz.org/charlotte.