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An estimated 1000 participants gathered at Fort Taber on Sunday, September 28 to raise awareness and money for the Southeastern Massachusetts Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds to support Alzheimer’s care, support and research. The Southeastern Massachusetts Walk to End Alzheimer’s is one of the 600 plus communities nationwide to mobilize people of all ages and abilities to stand up against Alzheimer’s and related disorders.
“Our Walk committee works hard year round to make sure the event runs smoothly and is fun for all who participate,” said Shannah Paddock, Development Officer for the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter. “We are thankful that the people of New Bedford and the surrounding communities have gathered together to show their support. They are really making a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s.”
Bristol County District Attorney Sam Sutter served as Honorary Chair for the event. Also in attendance was Miss New Bedford’s Outstand Teen, Olivia Marques. The event was emceed by DA staff member Ashley Bendiksen, who rallied the crowd in honor of her mother.
“I stand here today for my mother, but this is not just my cause. It is all of ours,” said Bendiksen addressing the crowd on Sunday. “The truth is we all have been affected by Alzheimer’s disease. We know how challenging it can be, and sadly, there are still so few answers. But in light of this, today we can come together and unite. We’re here to honor our loved ones, but we’re also here for a much larger purpose – to find an end to Alzheimer’s disease.”
“My mother developed Alzheimer’s at 48, which has since gone explained – hence the need for more research and continued funding. We still know so little about Alzheimer’s disease and that’s why we’re here today,” shared Bendiksen.
The Southeastern Massachusetts Walk to End Alzheimer’s goal is to raise $120,000 for the event. Prior to the Walk, the event had raised over $80,000. The total amount raised for the day of the event is still being calculated, but the Alzheimer’s Association urges participants to continue to raise funds. The Alzheimer’s Association will continue to accept donations to the Southeastern Massachusetts Walk until October 31. To make a donation today visit: act.alz.org/southeasternma.
