Charleston, S.C. Comes Together to Walk for a Cure for Alzheimer’s
Today, a heartwarming atmosphere filled the air at The Joe in downtown Charleston as more than one thousand people gathered to participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. This annual event is not just about raising funds; it’s a moment where the community unites to honor their loved ones and raise awareness about this devastating disease.
The Start of Something Special
As the sun rose over the city, participants gathered and eagerly awaited the signal to start walking. Just before the walkers took off, the Alzheimer’s Association was nearly at its fundraising goal of 400,000 dollars. What an inspiring sight to see so many people, with different backgrounds and stories, coming together for a single cause!
The Impact of Alzheimer’s in South Carolina
According to the latest report from the South Carolina Alzheimer’s Disease Registry, over 122,000 South Carolinians are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease or related forms of dementia. This staggering statistic highlights the urgency of these walks and why fundraising is so vital in supporting research and care for those afflicted by this cruel illness.
Walking for Love and Hope
Among the participants, Caroline Gethers walked proudly under the banner of “Team Granny.” She lost her beloved mother, affectionately known as Granny, five years ago after an 11-year struggle with Alzheimer’s. With her family by her side, Gethers passionately said, “We had our days where you know it was a fight, but for the most part I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Inspired by a group chat she was added to, Gethers rallied her family to join her in memory of Granny. She expressed the bittersweet feelings that came with watching her mother battle the disease, adding, “While we suffered watching what Granny had to go through, we knew when she passed away it was her time to go.”
Raising Awareness
Another couple, Brooks Martin and Jaime Chase, joined the event after learning firsthand about the harsh realities of Alzheimer’s. “This isn’t just about forgetting your keys,” Chase emphasized. “Alzheimer’s is a degenerative disease that’s just horrific.” After participating in a similar event in Washington, D.C., they chose to come to Charleston to support the local effort.
A Community Effort
With nine Walk to End Alzheimer’s events across South Carolina, the Charleston walk alone raised over 317,000 dollars as of Sunday afternoon. Participants carried brightly colored flowers representing their connection to the disease: orange for supporters, yellow for those who are currently battling it, purple for those who have lost loved ones, and blue for caregivers.
The ultimate hope is to see white flowers in the future, signifying a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. “It’s just important to support, in whatever way we can,” Martin shared. “Asking me to go for a walk to raise a few dollars—that’s an easy ask!”
Why It Matters
The funds raised from these walks contribute to crucial research for treatments and cures while also supporting families and caregivers who endure the challenges of the disease daily. “You don’t really know until you’ve gone through it, or even if it’s someone who’s close to you who’s gone through it,” Chase reflected, echoing the sentiments of many participants. “It’s difficult; it’s something I wouldn’t wish on anyone.”
How to Get Involved
If you’re moved by today’s event and want to help in the fight against Alzheimer’s, consider donating or discovering more ways to contribute to Alzheimer’s research efforts. Every little bit helps in this critical battle.
Remember, you can also call the 24/7 helpline number at (800) 272-3900 for support or more information about Alzheimer’s care and resources.
As we look back on this inspiring day, let’s hold onto the hope and the determination of individuals like Gethers, Martin, and Chase—who remind us that together we can make a difference.
