Together We Can End Alzheimer's!
Contact: Juliette Bradley jbradley@alz.org
Alzheimer's not only affects the person with the disease, but the lives of entire families, just like Melissa Brown's family. Roberta Nutt was a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Although Alzheimer's can't take those dear relationships away, it did steal this lovely woman away from her family way too soon. Melissa Brown, Roberta's granddaughter (and GMC employee), says her family will participate in Walk to End Alzheimer's on June 10th as part of the Oakview Estates Walk team because, "Grandma would want us to make a difference so that some day, others may not have to suffer like we did," says Melissa. Melissa encourages southeast Kansas residents to form a Walk team today or join someone's team. "Our goal is to make a difference for individuals or families in any way we can. Grandma's passion was her family - caring for and loving all of us, no matter our age. Everything she did in life was for someone else and this is a way for us to carry on her legacy of love."
Each registered walker will choose a brightly colored Promise Garden flower with special meaning:
Blue: I have Alzheimer's
Yellow: I am supporting or caring for someone with Alzheimer's
Purple: I have lost someone to Alzheimer's
Orange: I support the cause and a vision of a world without Alzheimer's
Walkers can write a personal message on their flower petals, furthering strengthening their dedication. Prior to the Walk start, participants will gather at the starting line and together, color by color, will hold their Promise Flowers high in the air, creating a dynamic, colorful and inspirational garden that will instantaneously become a "message on the move" as the walkers take their steps to end Alzheimer's.
"There has never been a greater need for those in Southeast Kansas to mobilize efforts and join in the fight against Alzheimer's disease," said Debra Brook, Alzheimer's Association - Heart of America Chapter Executive Director. "Participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer's is a show of community support for all those affected by this devastating disease. Funds raised will provide vital support services to the individuals and family members living with Alzheimer's in southeast Kansas, while also contributing to advancing critically-needed research."
Walk to End Alzheimer's is more than a walk. Since 1989, the Alzheimer's Association has mobilized millions of individuals, families and caregivers - through this signature event - to learn more about Alzheimer's disease and how to get involved with this critical cause.
Registration is available online at alzwalkseks.org. The Walk will be held at Lincoln Park Center in Pittsburg. Event day registration starts at 9:00 am. The Flower Garden ceremony is at 9:30 and the Walk begins at 10:00 am.