Alzheimer’s Association invites community to join the Marion Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer’s Association's 2024 Marion Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be held Saturday, Sept. 21, at the Ohio State Marion/Marion Tech campus.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the Promise Garden Ceremony at 9 a.m. and the walk afterward. Lynda Schrader will serve as chairperson. The fundraising goal is $40,000.

With more than 600 walks taking place across the U.S. each year, Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest fundraising event and supports the Association’s free educational programs and support groups, Alzheimer’s care services and advancements in treatment and research.

Promise Garden ceremony part of Alzheimer's Walk

During the walk, 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. Walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.

“This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s, because there are finally treatments that change the course of the disease,” said Vince McGrail, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter. “Every step takes us closer to a cure, and every dollar raised supports a fight for a different future − one without Alzheimer’s and other dementia. We hope Central Ohioans will register their team and help us raise the awareness and funds we need for our friends and neighbors facing this disease.”

Participation is free. Walkers and teams can set fundraising goals and earn incentives including T-shirts, backpacks, water bottles, blankets and more.

To register and receive updates on this year’s Walk, visit the Marion walk website .

Nearly 7 million Americans aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s dementia, including 236,200 in Ohio, according to the Alzheimer’s Association 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. One in three seniors dies with the disease − more than breast and prostate cancer combined. A total of 414,000 Ohio caregivers provide 624 million hours of unpaid care each year, valued at more than $11.4 billion.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s or other dementia and to access free support and resources, visit alz.org/centralohio or call the Central Ohio Chapter at 614-457-6003 or the 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.

This article originally appeared on Marion Star: Alzheimer’s Association invites community to join the Marion Walk to End Alzheimer’s