AUGUSTA — More than 300 Maine residents joined the Alzheimer’s Association’s Capital Area Walk to End Alzheimer’s® to unite in a movement to reclaim the future for millions on Oct. 3. Participants raised more than $58,000 to fund Alzheimer’s Association care, support and research programs. This is one of eight walks across Maine and a major contribution to the statewide goal of $740,000. Fundraising efforts continue on to Nov. 30, according to a news release from the association.

“We are so appreciative of the community response to support Walk to End Alzheimer’s in the Augusta area. Participating in the walk is such a great way to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia” said Laurie Trenholm, Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter executive director, in the release. “With funds raised, the Alzheimer’s Association will be able to provide much-needed care and support to people affected by the disease as well as fund critically needed Alzheimer’s research.”

Walk to End Alzheimer’s participants did more than complete the 2.5-mile walk from the Buker Community Center in Augusta. They learned more about Alzheimer’s disease and the association’s critical role in the fight against it, including the latest about Alzheimer’s research and current clinical trials, how they can become involved in advocacy efforts at home and in Washington, D.C., and the Association’s support programs and services. The event also included an emotional tribute ceremony to honor those who have experienced or are experiencing Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. As baby boomers age, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today’s more than 5 million Americans to as many as 16 million by 2050. In Maine alone, there are currently 26,000 people living with Alzheimer’s disease, with an additional 68,000 people providing $951,000,000 in unpaid care and support for them this year.

Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s – the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death.

Alzheimer’s Association®

The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s research, care and support. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org® or call 800-272-3900.###

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