The Alzheimer’s Association invites Stanly County residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Sept. 21 in Kannapolis.
The Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter will host Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Rowan-Cabarrus at Atrium Health Ballpark located at 1 Cannon Baller Way in Kannapolis. Check-in opens at 9 a.m. with an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. and the walk immediately following.
“This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. There are now treatments that change the course of the disease,” said Katherine L. Lambert, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina 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.”
On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.
“I am honored and proud to lead this year’s Walk and support the Alzheimer’s Association in its mission and efforts to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research,” said Louisa Jane Hartsell, executive leadership team chair of Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Rowan-Cabarrus and co-owner of Hartsell Funeral Home. “We look forward to bringing our community together for the world’s largest fundraiser to fight the disease. We are closer than ever to stopping Alzheimer’s. But to get there, we need as many people involved as possible.”
Nearly seven 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, there are more than 210,000 people living with the disease and 373,000 caregivers.
To register as a participant or team captain or to learn more about becoming a sponsor or volunteer of Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Rowan-Cabarrus, visit act.alz.org/RowanCabarrus or call 800-272-3900.