Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com


Livingston County-area residents are again invited to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s this weekend.

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s takes place on Saturday in downtown Howell. Registration is at 9am, with the opening ceremony at 10am, and the walk immediately to follow.

The Livingston County Walk to End Alzheimer’s — which last year raised more than $209,000 for Alzheimer’s and dementia care, support and critical research — brings together individuals and teams dedicated to an eventual world without Alzheimer’s.

President/CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter Jennifer Lepard said “This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. There are now treatments that change the course of the disease. We hope that everyone in our community can join us by starting a team to help the Alzheimer’s Association raise awareness and funds for families facing the disease today, take more steps toward treatments and finally end this disease.”

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.

Walk Manager for the Livingston County Walk to End Alzheimer’s Ann Rimanelli said she became involved with the Walk because her whole world changed when her mom was diagnosed with dementia.

Rimanelli said “I cared for her, and after she passed, I got involved with the Alzheimer’s Association and learned about so many incredible resources that would have been so useful to my mom and me throughout the caregiving journey. I want to make sure that people understand the resources we have available while they can use them, like our 24/7 Helpline which, in my opinion, is the best thing we do. And while part of the funds you raise for the Walk will go toward research into future treatments, funds will also be used toward so many important resources for current caregivers. We walk to ensure that no one is left behind.”

Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Michigan, there are more than 202,800 people living with the disease and 380,000 unpaid caregivers.

To register, donate, and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit the provided link.