We all have a reason to end Alzheimer’s and I’m participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s because I’m committed to raising awareness and funds in the fight against the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. Waterville is the new location for the Kennebec Valley Area Walk to End Alzheimer’s this year, as it had been held in Augusta for many years.

My inspiration for participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is my husband, Roland, who died on Thanksgiving Day 2010 after suffering from the disease for over 10 years. As his caregiver, I strongly support Alzheimer’s awareness and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

Roland was 63 when he was diagnosed and was still working in his aviation business as a pilot. He also served in the Maine Army National Guard for 35 years. The disease took a proud, intelligent man to a helpless individual who had become my child and was totally dependent on my care and, later on, his caregivers at the nursing home. This disease not only affects its victims, it also affects their families emotionally and financially.

Join me and many other supporters on Oct. 8 in Waterville by either walking or by contributing to “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” through a donation at alz.org/mainewalk or call at 772-0115. This walk is imperative to raise funds to find a cure for Alzheimer’s, as early-onset Alzheimer’s is on the increase and numbers are rising in all aspects of the disease.

Elizabeth Martin

advocate/ambassador

Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter