More than 400 residents from Clinton and Lycoming counties united in a movement to reclaim the future for millions with Alzheimer's disease and are celebrating their achievement from the September Alzheimer's Association's Walk to End Alzheimer's at Indian Park, Montoursville.
"I was inspired to see so many volunteers and supporters unite in the fight against Alzheimer's disease in just one day," said event organizer Barbara Wilson.
The Montoursville force will continue to collect donations in hopes of reaching their local goal of $56,500 by Nov. 16.
"Most teams are still working hard because they know they help provide care and support to those with the disease, as well as fund critically needed Alzheimer's research," Wilson said.
Donations are accepted at www.alz.org/walk.
Susan Blesh, team captain of Gram's Gang, has been walking for four years.
"We are working on the next event for Clinton County residents, Nov. 10, at Haywood's on the Green (41 Fairway View Drive, Mill Hall). The concert features those magical memories from the band Mountain Minstrelsy. All are welcome to attend," Blesh said.
Walk to End Alzheimer's participants learned about Alzheimer's disease, the latest research, clinical trials, the Association's support programs and services, and how to be an advocate at home and in Washington, D.C.
Alzheimer's disease is a growing epidemic and is the nation's sixth-leading cause of death. As baby boomers age, the number living with Alzheimer's disease will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today's estimated 5.4 million Americans living with Alzheimer's today. In Pennsylvania alone, there are 400,000 people living with Alzheimer's or related dementia, according to the Alzheimer's Association.
