Cycling Event to Raise Funds for Alzheimer’s Concludes in Mount Pleasant
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C
– In a bid to support the fight against Alzheimer’s disease, 400 cyclists made their way to the finish line in Mount Pleasant on Sunday. These cyclists participated in the Ride to End ALZ South Carolina bike ride, a three-day event that saw them cover a distance of 257 miles, starting from Upstate and ending in the Lowcountry.
The event, which aims to raise funds for Alzheimer’s disease treatment and research, also serves as a platform to increase awareness of the disease itself and the work of the Alzheimer’s Association. The endeavor successfully raised $1.1 million this year , according to Ashton Houghton, the Executive Director of South Carolina’s chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Raising Funds and Awareness for Alzheimer’s Disease
While the monetary contribution is significant, the awareness thus raised is equally important, as Houghton stressed. “As important as the $1.1 million that has been raised is the awareness and making sure people know that we are here to help day or night throughout their journey with the disease,” said Houghton.
The Executive Director’s connection to the cause is personal, as her grandmother got diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease at 59. Her involvement with the Alzheimer’s Association, starting as a volunteer and now serving the staff, helped her channel her personal experiences towards a good cause.
16 Years of Positive Impact
This year marks the 16th annual fundraiser for the treatment and research of Alzheimer’s disease. Initiated in 2009, the Ride to End ALZ has grown consistently in terms of both participants and the funds raised. The event’s importance is underlined by the fact that of the 6.9 million individuals with Alzheimer’s in America, an estimated 112,000 are from South Carolina.
All proceeds from the Ride to End ALZ are earmarked for local care and support services for Alzheimer’s patients in South Carolina. A part of the funds also goes towards global research initiatives, as efforts to identify a cure for this debilitating disease intensify.
In conclusion, the Ride to End ALZ not only serves as a fundraising initiative but also as a beacon of community solidarity. The 400 cyclists, together with their supportive loved ones, and the many volunteers who made this event possible stand testament to the collective efforts of a community dedicated to making a difference.
