The Alzheimer’s Association® Walk to End Alzheimer’s Raises Critically Needed Funds for Alzheimer’s Care, Support and Research
PHOENIX – The Alzheimer’s Association® Desert Southwest Chapter is inviting Phoenix area residents to join the fight to end the disease by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The Walk will take place on Saturday, November 11 at Wesley Bolin Plaza.
Nearly half a million American veterans have Alzheimer’s. Veterans will receive special recognition during a meaningful tribute ceremony to honor those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Flags will also be distributed to those in attendance.
“Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t only impact the person who receives the diagnosis, but their family and friends as well. No one needs to go through the journey alone,” said Pam Eisenberg, Walk Coordinator for the Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter.
Approximately 200,000 people under the age of 65 are living with younger-onset Alzheimer’s. Jean Norris-Wilhelm was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 55. The retired Chandler Unified math teacher is in the early stage of the disease and is determined to be an outspoken advocate. “I’m tiny but I’m mighty, a Warrior really,” said Jean. “Despite this diagnosis, I’m determined more than ever to keep going and going, living life to the fullest. I’ve never been a victim and I’m not starting now. Alzheimer’s is not going to define me.”
Jean’s wife and care partner, Kathy, says Jean inspires her daily. “I continue to learn so much about life and living from her [Jean], especially since she was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. She isn’t about to let anything stop her, not even this disease. We are committed to help raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and funding to help find a cure.”
According to the Arizona Department of Health, Alzheimer’s is the 4th leading cause of death in our state. Alzheimer’s disease is the only disease among the top 10 causes in the United States that cannot be cured, prevented or even slowed. More than 15 million family and friends provide care to people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias across the country. In Arizona alone, there are more than 130,000 people living with the disease and 325,000 caregivers.
For more information or to register: www.phoenixalzheimerswalk.org.
Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s – the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death.
Alzheimer’s Association®
The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s 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 or call 800.272.3900.
