More than 1,000 area residents participated in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Moore County in the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease at Sandhills Community College on Sept. 14. With a fundraising goal of $130,000, participants helped surpass that goal, raising more than $168,000 to fund Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs of the Alzheimer’s Association. This is a record for the Moore County walk.
“We sincerely thank the many dedicated Walk participants, volunteers and sponsors who made the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Moore County a tremendous success,” said Katherine L. Lambert, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter. “The funds raised will help fuel disease research while also providing critical care and support to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia.”
Video via Alzheimer’s Association.
McKee Homes – Moore County was the top fundraising team at this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, raising $13,071. The other top fundraising teams include Edward Jones – Region 355 ($7,840) and Friends of Pinehurst Surgical ($6,847).
On walk day, participants honored 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. The colors of the Promise Garden flowers represent people’s connection to Alzheimer’s – their personal reasons to end the disease.
Presented by McKee Homes, the day also featured fun, entertainment for all ages, and family-friendly music. There was also a special performance by reigning Miss Sandhills, Sarah Beth Howard, who sang the national anthem.
Nearly seven 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 North Carolina alone, there are more than 210,000 people living with the disease and 373,000 caregivers. Moore County has an Alzheimer’s prevalence rate of 12.1% in its age 65 and older population.
Even though it has surpassed its goal, the Association is keeping up the momentum and continuing to raise critical funds and awareness by the end of the year. Walk day may have passed, but donations are still accepted through Dec. 31 at act.alz.org/moorecounty.
Feature photo by David Sinclair Photography.
Contributed article.
