WILMINGTON — Nearly 1,000 people participated in a walk to raise funds for Alzheimer’s.
This year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Wrightsville Beach Park on Nov. 4 raised more than $164,000 to fund Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs of the Alzheimer’s Association. More than 900 people participated in the event.
“Many thanks to our dedicated Walk participants, volunteers, sponsors, staff and the New Hanover County community and surrounding area for coming together to take steps for all those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and all other dementia,” Lisa Roberts, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association – Eastern North Carolina Chapter, said in a press release. “We appreciate everyone involved for raising critical funds for Alzheimer’s research and local support services.”
In North Carolina alone, there are 180,000 people living with the disease and 369,000 caregivers. New Hanover County has an Alzheimer’s prevalence rate of 11% in its age 65 and older population. It’s one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. with more than 6 million people living with Alzheimer’s and more than 11 million caregivers.
McKee Homes was the top fundraising team for this year’s event, raising $18,555. The next two top earners were ONE Edward Jones — 208 with $10,115 and I Don’t Want to Forget! with $8,944.
During the event earlier this month, participants honored those effected by the disease with a Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies solidarity in the fight against Alzheimer’s. The colors of the garden represent people’s connection to Alzheimer’s and their personal reasons to end the disease.
FOX Wilmington’s First Alert Weather Forecaster Gabe Ross emceed the event, which also included all-ages entertainment and live music.
Tips or comments? Email info@localdailymedia.com.
Want to read more from PCD? Subscribe now and then sign up for our morning newsletter, Wilmington Wire, and get the headlines delivered to your inbox every morning.
