Once More, Malden Woman Walking, Raising Funds For Alzheimer's

The following is courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association:

MALDEN, MA ­— Christie Silva of Malden will participate in the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Boston Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Sunday, September 24 at North Point Park in Cambridge

Silva’s grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s over six years ago, “before her diagnosis, I really didn’t know much about Alzheimer’s. Now having lived through this experience it is my mission to make sure I do my part so there is a cure for this disease.”

This is the fifth year Silva will participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s event, along with a team of family and friends she has helped raise nearly $10,000 for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. She credits the Alzheimer’s Association with helping support her family through her grandmother’s journey with the disease, “this organization has helped myself and my family get through some very difficult times. I always tell people how incredibly helpful the 24/7 Helpline is. I called it over the years for advice and sometimes just an ear to listen. If I called them crying or upset, I always ended the call calmer, feeling better and sometimes a bit more in control.”

This January, Christie’s grandmother lost her battle to Alzheimer’s, but her commitment to the cause continues in her memory, “this is the only way I know how to help.”

In an effort to surpass the $10,000 fundraising mark this year, Silva will also hold a Zumbathon fundraising event with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Taking place Sunday, September 17 at 3:00 p.m., at Latin Beat Fitness Studio in Malden, the event will feature a 90 minute Zumba Fitness class and raffle prizes. Tickets are $20 for the event, to register or for more information, visit facebook.com/events/339944533116472.

“In order to reclaim the future for millions, we need dedicated people like Christie to join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” said Jayne Paragona, Vice President of Development for the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter. “The Walk helps us raise awareness to continue our outreach and support for everyone impacted by Alzheimer's and dementia in our local communities. The dollars raised by Christie fund those crucial support services while allowing us to invest in research towards treatment and a cure.”

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. For information, to volunteer or participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, call 800.272.3900 or visit www.alzwalkMANH.org.

About the Alzheimer's Association:

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s research, care and support. Our 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. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org/MANH or call 800.272.3900.