The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting the Nassau County community to join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Sunday, Oct. 6 at Eisenhower Park Field 6/6A in East Meadow.
According to the association, nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. It is a leading cause of death in the United States. In New York, more than 426,000 people are living with the disease and 543,000 caregivers.
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s raises funds for research initiatives and for care and support programs.
“This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. There are now FDA-approved treatments that change the course of the disease,” said Tinamarie Hardekopf, development director for the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter. “We invite everyone to join the Walk to build on this momentum.”
On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony; a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.
Blue represents someone living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Purple is for those who have lost a someone to the disease. Yellow represents someone who is currently supporting or caring for a person living with Alzheimer’s. Orange is for those who support the cause and the Association’s vision of a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.
“It is very touching to hear the stories of how people are personally affected by this disease,” said Michele Targovnik, Nassau Walk Committee member. “The Promise Garden Ceremony is special because when you see everyone around you holding different color flowers it makes you feel so supported and wonderful to be standing next to the person next to you.”
Check-in begins at 9 a.m. Opening ceremonies take place at 10 a.m., and the walk will begin at 10:30 a.m. The route is approximately two miles around the park.
To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit act.alz.org/nassau.
