Alzheimer's Association Greater Indiana Walk to End Alzheimer's® Reclaims the Future for Millions
INDIANAPOLIS (PRWEB) September 10, 2015 -- The Alzheimer’s Association invites Indiana residents to unite in a movement to reclaim the future for millions by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, presented by statewide sponsors American Senior Communities and Kittle’s Furniture. Participants in 12 walks across the state are expected to raise $1.8 million to fund Alzheimer's care, support and research programs in Indiana.
More than 10,000 participants in Indiana communities Anderson, Bloomington, Columbus, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Kokomo, Lake County, Lafayette, Merrillville, Michiana, Michigan City, Richmond and Terre Haute gather between September and October to learn about Alzheimer's disease and how to get involved with this critical cause, from advocacy opportunities and clinical studies enrollment to support programs and services. Walk participants also honor those affected by Alzheimer's disease with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony.
“The need to fight against Alzheimer’s disease is greater than ever,” said Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter Executive Director Heather Hershberger, “and by participating in Walk to End Alzheimer’s, communities raise funds to provide care and support services to the more than 110,000 Indiana residents living with Alzheimer’s and 332,000 dementia caregivers. The support also contributes to advancing research that could help find a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.”
Prior to walking the 1- and 3-mile routes, participants enjoy family activities, the community venue and opening ceremonies. The Indianapolis Walk to End Alzheimer’s, presented by CNO Financial Group, offers a fun run for participants wanting to complete the downtown Indianapolis course on a faster pace. At many of the walk locations, dogs are welcome on routes. Groups of teams, clad in purple attire and accessories, compete to show the best team spirit. Colorful flower pinwheels which signify a participant’s reason to walk – orange for advocacy, yellow for caregivers, purple for those who have lost a loved one and blue for those with a diagnosis – spin together as one voice in fighting Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death, and the only leading cause of death without a way to cure, treat or slow its progression. As baby boomers age, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today’s more than 5 million Americans to as many as 16 million by 2050.
To start or join a team today, visit http://alz.org/Indiana/walk. To learn more about disease and available resources, call the toll-free Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.
Alzheimer's Association®
The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org/Indiana or call 800.272.3900.
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Leah Shattuck, Alzheimer's Association Greater Indiana, http://alz.org/indiana, +1 317-587-2240, [email protected]
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