Wednesday, October 2, 2002 |
Memeory Walk around 'The Fred' to raise money for Alzheimer's research and awareness By MICHAEL
BOYLAN
Over four million people in the United States have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and there is currently no cure. This Saturday, thousands of people across the state will participate in the Alzheimer's Memory Walk. Money raised during the walk funds research, education and support for caregivers. Alzheimer's disease brings on memory loss, disorientation, lack of cognitive ability and then death. The Southern Crescent Alzheimer's Memory Walk will take place at the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater. Registration starts at 8 a.m., the 5K run starts at 9:15 a.m. and the walk begins at 9:30 a.m. There will be a special 1/8-mile walk for seniors or people with disabilities that want to participate. There will be coffee, water, juice and early morning refreshments and some representatives from Gold's Gym will lead the pre-walk warm up. The walk is very well organized and has over 100 volunteers. There will be free water every mile and golf carts every half mile for people who need assistance. The peachtree City Kiwanis will cook hamburgers and hotdogs and there will entertainment from Peachtree Jazz Additions and the duet "Wings." An important feature of the walk is the Memory Wall. Everyone is invited to bring a picture in honor/memory of a loved one that has been afflicted by Alzheimer's Disease to place on the wall during the walk. "We are proud of our community and open hearts," said Community Awareness Chair Carolyn Sirkel. "Let's be the best in the state in numbers walking and in contributions." |