Fighting for a different future: Annual Alzheimer’s walk in Lexington

LEXINGTON, Ky. ( FOX 56 ) — Fighting for a different future, people in Lexington joined forces on Sunday to advocate for advances in treatment for Alzheimer’s. Many in attendance said they have been affected by the disease in one way or another.

Mackenzie Wallace, Director of Public Policy for the Alzheimer Association said “This provides a great opportunity to be part of this community and show support for all of the Kentuckians that are impacted by this disease.”

“But our fundraising component that all of these individuals are doing is also a huge piece of that. So, the money that we raise here today is going to support researchers, for example, at the University of Kentucky, Sanders-Brown Center on Aging. So, people right here in the Bluegrass State in our own backyard that are working on new clinical trials, on different, research opportunities, and all of them are trying to do this to find new cures,” said Wallace.

Alzheimer’s disease causes the brain to shrink and eventually kills brain cells

health experts say people with the disease will see a gradual decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and social skills.

“It’s a very difficult disease to talk about for some people, because there’s still a huge stigma attached to it, especially in certain communities. there is a lack of understanding, even sometimes with our medical professionals who think, well, maybe that’s just normal aging. and so, a lot of the times we find that it’s hard to talk about, and so again, when you see an event like this and all of these people are out here because they are not ashamed, they want to talk about this disease, they want to spread awareness,” said Wallace.

The annual Alzheimer’s walk allows community members to support the cause, learn more about the disease, and honor those they’ve lost.

Event organizers with the Alzheimer’s Association say they hope others see how powerful their support is as they work together to tear down the stigma often associated with this illness.

If you are interested in learning more about what the Alzheimer’s Association does, or want to donate to their cause, click here .

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