CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Residents have an opportunity to help battle Alzheimer’s disease on Saturday by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association 2015 Charleston Walk to End Alzheimer’s. 
The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting residents of Charleston and surrounding areas to unite in a movement to reclaim the future for millions.
“Taking part in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a truly moving experience,” said Laurel Waller, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association’s West Virginia Chapter. “Friends and family gather to honor loved ones and support others facing this devastating disease, while raising funds to support research and care services provided by the Alzheimer’s Association. Because of dedicated Walk to End Alzheimer’s participants, the Alzheimer’s Association is the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research.”
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 has 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.
Charleston resident Carol Miller, who lost her grandfather to Alzheimer’s Disease, serves as the Walk Event Chair for Charleston.
Alzheimer’s Association officials said Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. “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.”
In addition to the walk, Waller said participants also will 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 walk starts at Appalachian Power Park on Saturday. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the walk takes place at 9:30 a.m.
To start or join a team today, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website at alz.org/walk. To learn more about the disease and available resources, call the toll-free Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900.
The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
