WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S SET FOR NOVEMBER 19
More than five million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease. More than 15 million more provide unpaid care to someone facing Alzheimer’s or other dementias. That’s at least 20 million of us who are affected by this debilitating disease—in other words, a lot. On Sunday, November 19, you can join thousands of others to enhance care and support for these individuals. All you have to do is put one foot in front of the other. The Houston Walk to End Alzheimer’s, one of 12 walks hosted by Alzheimer’s Association Houston & Southeast Texas Chapter, raises critical funds to enhance Alzheimer’s care and support, and provide critical research. Research brings the organization closer to its vision: a world without Alzheimer’s®. When you walk the 3.1 miles (5 km) around the University of Houston, you’ll meet people who have lost loved ones to Alzheimer’s, people who care for people with Alzheimer’s, people who support the cause, and people suffering from Alzheimer’s. You’ll meet many clients of the Houston & Southeast Texas Chapter, which serves 37 counties. “Through the walk, you meet other people, and you see how everyone needs some support,” says Roy Cordes Jr., whose wife Helen was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at age 56. “People need to feel they are not alone.”
Giving to the givers
Everyone has brain, we are all at risk for Alzheimer’s disease. What’s often overlooked is what a toll it takes on their loved ones: the devastating emotional and financial difficulties, the decline in physical health, and the constant stress and sadness. Most of these caregivers (84%) say they would like more support, especially from family. That’s a lot of people who aren’t getting the support they need. The Alzheimer’s Association provides that support. As the leading voluntary health organization for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research, the Alzheimer’s Association has Chapters in communities around the country. Local chapters such as the Houston & Southeast Texas Chapter host support groups and educational sessions. For those who can’t get away, the organization offers a 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) as well as a wealth of online resources at alz.org/ texas As Roy and Helen came to terms with her diagnosis, they found the Alzheimer’s Association. They volunteered to help at Houston and Fort Bend–area walks. Helen also spoke at conferences about early-onset Alzheimer’s. Soon, they came to understand and take advantage of the wealth of resources the organization provides. “We got to know people and discovered what we think is one of best resources available—the care and support Alzheimer’s Association gives through its nationwide Helpline and through groups of other earlyonset folks,” says Cordes. “We both met with counselors, and that helped us see we’re not in this by ourselves. We could connect people who really care about others facing Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.” In November, in honor of National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month, Houston walks. Walk to End Alzheimer’s participants learn about Alzheimer’s disease and the Alzheimer’s Association. You’ll find out about advocacy opportunities, clinical studies participation, and programs and services for both caregivers and patients. And you’ll receive a Promise Garden flower to represent your connection to the disease and show your support.
How you can help
You can participate in the Houston Walk to End Alzheimer’s as an individual, as part of an existing team, or as part of a team you create. Recruit your friends and family—your fundraising dollars benefit the care, support, and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. The Alzheimer’s Association Houston & Southeast Texas Chapter has a goal to raise $826,000. To date, the Chapter has raised over $340,000. With your support, it will reach its goal! The Houston Walk to End Alzheimer’s takes place on Sunday, November 19, at University of Houston, Lynn Eusan Park, at 4800 Calhoun Road. Registration begins at 7 a.m. The ceremony starts at 8:30 a.m., and the walk kicks off at 9 a.m. Want to skip the lines on walk day? Take advantage of early-bird check-in on Tuesday, November 14, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Alzheimer’s Association, 6055 South Loop East. Got questions? Visit the walk page website or call 713-314-1313 for more info.