More than 400 people turn out for Putnam Walk to End Alzheimer's

The Putnam Walk to End Alzheimer’s drew more than 400 people to Putnam Veterans Memorial Park in Carmel on Sunday, Oct. 21, despite cold temperatures and blustery winds.

Participants began gathering at the park at 9 a.m., where there was coffee provided by Bear Mountain Coffee Roasters and breakfast from Somers Hot Bagels and Carmel Bagel & Deli with cream cheese, butter and milk provided by Ace Endico.

The opening ceremony kicked off with the national anthem performed by the Pacapellas, a singing group from Mahopac High School. Then a fitness instructor from Bad Mikey’s led participants in warmup exercises. Alzheimer’s Association President and CEO David Sobel oversaw the Promise Garden ceremony, in which flowers of various colors were held up by walkers to symbolize their relationship to Alzheimer’s. Purple flowers were held by those who had lost a loved one to Alzheimer’s or dementia and blue flowers were held to represent those living with dementia. Yellow flowers represented caregivers and orange were held by those dedicated to ending Alzheimer’s. The ceremony concluded with the appearance of someone holding a white flower symbolizing the first survivor of the disease.

Walkers then set out on the two-lap, two-mile walk around the park. Those completing the route were greeted by cheering volunteers ringing cowbells and waving pompoms. Sandwiches provided by Grand Central Market were available for returning walkers as well as a variety of other refreshments, including apples and cider from Salinger’s Orchard.

Entertainment was on hand for walkers before and after the event, including a children’s area with face painting, pumpkin painting and Bee Bee the Clown, who created balloon animals for young walkers. There was also a basketball court, a high striker and a gym obstacle course on site.

“The turnout was great, and the fact that our walkers braved the cold and windy elements really shows their commitment to the cause,” Sobel said. “We are so thankful for the fundraising that has been done to date, and we thank participants for taking up the challenge to reach our goal by Dec. 31.”

The Putnam Walk to End Alzheimer’s has so far raised nearly $68,500 toward its goal of $98,000. The top fundraising teams to date are LeanOnWe and Team Rosolen. Fundraising continues through the end of the year; donations can be made at PutnamWalk.org.

About the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs. Participants learn about Alzheimer's disease, advocacy opportunities, clinical-study enrollment and support programs and services.

About the Hudson Valley Chapter

The Hudson Valley Chapter serves families living with dementia in seven counties in New York including Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. To learn more about programs and services offered locally, visit alz.org/hudsonvalley.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s 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 www.alz.org/hudsonvalley or call 800.272.3900.