ANDOVER — More than 2,000 residents from Andover and surrounding cities and towns participated in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Northeastern Massachusetts on Sunday at Brickstone Square.
Participants raised more than $500,000 to advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.
“The Walk to End Alzheimer’s brings our community together for a purpose that has never been more important. As research advances and new treatments become available, we have more reasons for hope,” Ginny Hanbridge, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter, said.
“Thanks to the incredible dedication of our participants, volunteers and sponsors, we’re driving research forward, expanding access to care and support, and empowering more people to take steps to protect their brain health.”
Participants honored those affected by Alzheimer’s during the Promise Garden ceremony, an experience symbolizing solidarity in the fight against the disease. The colors of the Promise Garden flowers represent each participant’s connection to Alzheimer’s and personal reason to help end the disease.
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Northeastern Massachusetts is building on that momentum as it works toward its $694,000 year-end fundraising goal. Although Walk Day has passed, individuals can still register, walk in their own neighborhoods and continue fundraising. Donations will be accepted through Dec. 31.
More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, a leading cause of death in the United States.
In Massachusetts, more than 135,200 people are living with the disease, and 220,000 family members and friends serve as caregivers. Across the country, nearly 13 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.