A Fight Worth Walking For
Alzheimer’s Association Walk to Be Held at Central Park
Sasha Bush
The Ashland Beacon
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. Being a progressive disease, it begins with mild memory loss and can eventually lead to one’s loss of the ability to carry on a conversation. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases. A common misconception about this brutal disease is that it is a normal part of aging. While it is true that the majority of people with Alzheimer’s disease are in the age group of 65 or older, the reality is that Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t discriminate and can affect anyone at any age. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, it is estimated that more than six million Americans of all ages have some form of Alzheimer’s.
“Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death with no cure. Currently, 75,000 Kentuckians are living with Alzheimer's and their 150,000 unpaid caregivers,” explained Jessica Munoz, Walk Manager for the Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana Chapter of ALZ. “I help coordinate with our volunteer committee to plan the walk, coach our team captains, recruit new teams to join the fight against Alzheimer's, and work with our local community partners who support our mission,” noted Munoz.
Munoz continued, “The Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's is the world's largest fundraiser for Alzheimer's care, support, and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease. The Ashland Walk will be held on Sunday, October 22 at Central Park starting at 1:30 p.m. with the opening ceremony at 2:15 p.m. followed by the walk. It's a great way to come out, support our mission, and see so many other families and companies in your area that are also affected by this disease and in this fight with you.”
If you are interested in getting involved with this walk, you can register and start a team at act.alz.org/ashlandky. “Share your story to invite others to donate, and join your team to help raise awareness and funds. No fundraiser or effort is too small- post on social media or host a chili cookoff. It's also a great way to get employees involved! The more action we can inspire, the more awareness we can bring. Then of course, join us on Walk Day for a fun event! We welcome teams of family, friends, and corporate teams as well! There is no minimum number of people to a team and no fundraising minimums. We encourage all who have a connection or simply want to support our vision of a world without Alzheimer's!” Munoz stated.
Events such as these are critical to help raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s disease. Munoz explained, “Every dollar you raise benefits those affected by Alzheimer's disease in your community. The Alzheimer's Association is a global organization working to advance care, support, and research across the world. From face-to-face support to online education programs and promising worldwide research initiatives, the money you raise makes a difference in the lives of those facing Alzheimer's.”
The Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana chapter offers local support to those living with dementia and their families through educational programs, support groups, and our free 24/7 hotline to help with crisis and care consultations. The Alzheimer's Association is also the largest nonprofit funder for Alzheimer’s research and hopes to find a cure.