The third annual Chestertown Walk to End Alzheimer's is scheduled for Oct. 22, beginning in Wilmer Park. Funds raised by the walk go to provide support for those affected by the disease, both patients and their families, and to underwrite research to help end the epidemic, which is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. According to the Alzheimer's Association, it affects more than 5 million Americans. One in three seniors has Alzheimer's or another form of dementia at the time of their death.Walks to End Alzheimer's are held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide. Sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association, together they are the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
Registration for the walk is from 9 to 10 a.m. During registration, participants may drop off donations, enjoy refreshments and music, take team pictures and decorate Promise Garden flowers.
The opening ceremony is at 10 a.m., and the walk begins at 10:15. Walkers may choose between two routes of different lengths, depending on their ability and endurance. The longer walk follows the Gilchrest Rail Trail, which begins across the street from the park.
Companies that wish to contribute to the effort to end the Alzheimer's epidemic are invited to join as sponsors.
Parking is available onsite.
Volunteers with a wide range of talents and skills are also needed for the walk. Call Gail Yerkie at 410-778-2897 for more information on volunteering.
For more information, call Yerkie or contact Carol Zimmerman at 410-543-1163 (option 3) or email czimmerman@alz.org. To register in advance, visit act.alz.org/goto/ChestertownWalk. There is a direct link to register there.
You can also visit the Chestertown Walk to End Alzhiemer's page on Facebook