Over 450 SouthCoast residents raise funds, participate in Walk to End Alzheimer’s

FALL RIVER, MA (9/27/22) – More than 450 residents and 70 teams from Fall River and surrounding communities participated in this year’s SouthCoast Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, September 24 at Bristol Community College. Participants raised more than $88,000 towards the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.

“It is inspiring to see so many community members come together to share in this special event and take steps for all those affected by Alzheimer’s and all other dementia,” said Jim Wessler, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter. “The Walk to End Alzheimer’s plays a critical role in helping advance research and enhancing care and support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their families.”

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.

The Association is keeping up the momentum and continuing to raise critical funds and awareness with the goal of reaching $101,000 by the end of the year. Although Walk Day has passed, individuals are encouraged to still register, walk in their own neighborhoods, and continue to fundraise. Donations are still being accepted through December 31.

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 Massachusetts alone, there are more than 130,000 people living with the disease and 284,000 caregivers.