Walk to End Alzheimer's Expected to Have a Record Turnout

The 2015 Northeastern Massachusetts Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is set for Sunday,, Sept. 20, at Brickstone Square in Andover.

Online registration has already opened for the event, which is expected to have a record turnout.

“The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is enormously empowering to families who are living with the challenge of Alzheimer’s,” said James Wessler, President/CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH Chapter in a statement. “It’s important for people to know that they are not alone and that they can do something to fight back. Alzheimer’s takes away so much and hits families hard, financially and emotionally. And for those with Alzheimer’s, there are no effective treatments yet. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a day to commit to changing the trajectory of the disease.”

More than 5 million people in the U.S. have Alzheimer’s. It is the sixth leading cause of death. While age is the greatest risk factor, it can occur in those as young as 40, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

The Northeastern Massachusetts Walk to End Alzheimer’s is co-chaired by Lisa Sobhain, Director of Dementia Services and Life Enrichment Programs at D’Youville and Tracy Clement, Vice President, Relationship Manager at Enterprise Bank.

Beginning at 8:30 a.m., highlights for the Walk include free refreshments, children’s activities, the opportunity to connect with local service providers and the opportunity to learn more about the services the Alzheimer’s Association provides.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. For more information or to volunteer or participate in the Walk call 800-272-3900 or visit www.alzwalkMANH.org.

About the Alzheimer’s Association:

The Alzheimer Association provides services and programs for those with Alzheimer’s, family and professional caregivers in the form of support groups, a 24/7 Helpline, care consultation, advocacy efforts, and education programs. The Alzheimer’s Association is also the world’s leading nonprofit funder of research into causes, treatments and, someday, a cure. For more information about Alzheimer programs, visit www.alz.org/MANH or call 800.272.3900

Photo Credit: Alzheimer’s Association