Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Walk to End Alzheimer’s”

by: Anastasia Pagello Staff Writer

Saturday, Sept. 26.

Over 500 Alzheimer’s patients, caretakers and supporters gathered at Veteran’s Park in Flagler Beach for the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” on Saturday, Sept. 26.

The annual “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” event was held at Veterans Park in Flagler Beach on Saturday, Sept. 26. The event was one of 800 walks in the United States this fall.

“The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voice for Alzheimer’s patients in the nation and is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the needs and rights of the patients,” CEO of Central and North Florida. “More than 500,000 people in the state of Florida have Alzheimer’s disease. That means 10% of all Americans with Alzheimer’s are living in Florida. Our state has the second highest population in the country.”

The walkers made a two mile loop starting at Veterans Park and ending at the farmer’s market. Every walker received a pin-wheel flower to signify whether they were a supporter, a caregiver, a patient diagnosed with the disease or someone who lost a loved one to Alzheimer’s.

The walk well exceeded the expectations of Associate Director and Event Coordinator Michelle Drinks. “I am truly excited for the turnout,” Drinks said. “It would not have been possible without the help of the Alzheimer’s committee members and over fifty volunteers who came to help out. I am looking forward to doing the event bigger and better next year.” Originally the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” event, in Flagler Beach, set out to raise funds of $42,000 this year. Over $50,000 was raised by the day of the event. 

Dr. Maria P Barbosa with Commissioner Nate Mclaughlin Flagler County Florida and T-Club Teens of Flagler County and DIVAS members of Flagler County