Howard County Walk to End Alzheimer's Returning to Centennial Park, Sept. 26

Timonium, Md. (Aug. 19, 2015) – The Alzheimer’s Association invites the Howard County community to unite in a movement to reclaim the future for millions living with the disease by participating in Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, Saturday, Sept. 26 (rain or shine) at Centennial Park (10000 Route 108) in Columbia.

With over 500 people expected, the Walk offers an opportunity to learn about Alzheimer’s disease and how to get involved with this critical cause, from advocacy and clinical studies enrollment, to support programs and services.

Registration begins at 9 a.m., when participants can drop off donations, pick up t-shirts, take team photos and decorate posters and Promise Garden flowers. Following a powerful opening ceremony focusing on the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association and honoring, those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, the 2.5-mile walk will commence at 10 a.m.

Everyone is encouraged to stay after for fun activities for the family, including the Kids’ Corner, sponsored by My Gym Children’s Fitness Center; the Canine Corner, sponsored by Right at Home and refreshments provided by Giant Food and Panera.

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 will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today’s more than 5 million Americans to as many as 16 million by 2050.

“Fifteen years ago when my mother developed Alzheimer’s, my father was solely taking care of her in every way,” said George Grose, an Alzheimer’s Association Greater Maryland Chapter board member. “I’ve known at least three people who developed early-onset Alzheimer’s and I am very concerned about the number of people who don’t receive the help they need. That is why I walk to end Alzheimer’s.”

Walk participants can register as individuals or teams by visiting alz.org/walk. Registration is free and those who raise at least $100 will receive a Walk to End Alzheimer’s t-shirt. To learn more about the disease and available resources, call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.

The Greater Maryland Chapter will host a total of six regional Walks, made possible by statewide Platinum-level sponsor Genesis Healthcare, as well as local sponsors, Open House of Prayer and Vantage House. Last year’s events in Maryland drew more than 5,100 walkers and raised over $921,000.

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’s 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 care, support and research. Its 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. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org/maryland or call 800.272.3900.