Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
Too many are suffering and dying from Alzheimer’s disease. This terrible disease not only affects the people who suffer from it but also family members who care for them.
On Oct. 13, hundreds of people came together at Nova Southeastern University to participate in a three-mile walk around the campus. The weather was perfect for a walk and many groups and teams participated. Some of the team were businesses, others were groups who walked in memory of someone who died from Alzheimer’s.
A group of Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood participated. The hospital offers a large Alzheimer’s and memory care program.
Aurelio Fernandez, CEO of Memorial Healthcare System in South Broward was part of the Walk. “We want to help people who have Alzheimer’s. We also want to help their families,” he said.
Karen Harrington, a member of the South Broward Hospital District Commission has cared for a family member with Alzheimer’s. She participated in the Walk. “We want to help people with Alzheimer’s and it is important to help families who are caring for someone with this disease. I went through it and I know how hard it is,” said Harrington. “We need to support people who are facing this disease.”
Angel Thomas, who cares for people with Alzheimer’s participated in the Walk. “This is a horrible disease and I am participating in the walk because it is a great cause,” said Thomas. She walked with her friend Kandace Lesher who is also very committed to fighting for solutions to the disease and help for individuals and families who are dealing with it.
Bridget Malone participated in the Walk. “This was a nice event. We need to support families who are caring for people with Alzheimer’s. We need to raise money and awareness about this disease,” said Malone.
Gus Rodriguez was in the Walk. He has cared for people with Alzheimer’s. “This is a very important cause. We need to find a cure for Alzheimer’s. We want to help people with this disease and people who care for them,” he said.
Denise Velez walked and said, “We need to create awareness about this disease. We need to support people who care for those with Alzheimer’s,” said Velez.
Alejandra Badillo was in the walk and said, “Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is very stressful.”
The walk was a pleasant experience for participants. It was a clear day. There were entertainment and music. Breakfast was provided for the participants. Families and friends spent a morning together.
