PC 'Walks to Remember' Sunday: Part of the Fight to End Alzheimer's

By Alzheimer's Association, Rhode Island Chapter

PROVIDENCE, RI—The color purple will take over Providence College's outdoor track facility this Sunday, April 30th, as the College hosts its fourth annual Alzheimer's Walk, "A Walk to Remember." This year's walk was organized by two Providence College seniors, Maria Alfieri and Christopher Burrows with the help of fellow members of the College's Health Care Club. Both seniors are eagerly anticipating their graduation from Providence College this spring as Health Policy and Management majors.

The idea of hosting a walk against Alzheimer's on campus began in 2013 with a Providence College senior, Michelle La France, who's dad was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia during her undergrad career. According to the Association, the term dementia describes the general symptoms of memory loss or decline in thinking skills that interfere with a person's everyday activities. Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia characterized by impairment of memory and thinking as well as behavioral problems. La France, a health policy and management major, created "A Walk to Remember" as her project in an independent study with Dr. Robert B. Hackey, professor of health policy and management. "I think it's important the younger population is aware of such a debilitating disease and our power to change it," said La France, who now works for the Alzheimer's Association, Rhode Island Chapter, continuing to advocate for an end to this disease.

The Alzheimer's Association estimates that in the United States someone develops Alzheimer's disease every 66 seconds. By 2050 that number is expected to be more than halved, with an American developing the disease every 33 seconds. Although the disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, there is currently no prevention, effective treatment, or cure. The disease's rising prevalence and personal stories have inspired Providence College students to get active and make a difference each year.

This 5k event open to both walkers and runners has become an annual occurrence at the College under the auspices of the Health Care Club on campus, raising more than $5,000 every year. Sunday's event will include music, food, and prizes for those who raise $50, $100, or more. Proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer's Association, Rhode Island Chapter efforts towards Alzheimer's care, support and research.

Alzheimer's is a disease that touches many. Join the cause and help make a difference in the lives of those dealing with Alzheimer's disease and other related dementias. The Walk to Remember will be held at Providence College's New Track Facility rain or shine on Sunday, April 30th and is open to the community. Registration will begin at 1:30PM and the walk will kick-off at 2:00PM. Participants can register or donate in advance on the crowdrise site: https://www.crowdrise.com/a-walk-to-remember-providence-colleges-fourth-annual-alzheimers-memory-walk/fundraiser/mariaalfieri.