Walking to end Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease is an epidemic. Findings from the 2022 Alzheimer’s Association Disease Facts and Figures annual report showed that more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s and dementia have also increased 17% during the COVID-19 pandemic. While deaths from heart disease have decreased by more than 7% over the last 20 years, deaths from Alzheimer’s have increased 145% since 2000. A staggering one out of every three seniors will die with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. It kills more than breast cancer and prostate cancer, combined, but there is hope

The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia by accelerating global research and driving risk reduction and early detection. They work on both local and national levels to provide maximum care and support for all those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

In honor of those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones and caregivers, the Alzheimer’s Association is once again inviting the Southeast Texas community to take part in the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in their annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, Oct. 8, at the Downtown Event Centre (700 Crockett St.) in Beaumont, rain or shine.

Festivities will begin at 8 a.m. and the walk starts at 9 a.m. This year, two routes are available – 1 mile and 3 miles. Registration is now open online at act.alz.org/beaumont.

Participants can form teams and additional walkers can join their teams, and no one is excluded. “Anybody can come – strollers are welcome; dogs are welcome – we invite everybody,” said Shanna Briggs, Alzheimer’s Association Regional Manager. There will also be face-painting for the kids.

Those who raise $100 will also be mailed a commemorative Walk to End Alzheimer’s T-shirt.

Special guests of the walk include Lamar University mascot Big Red, PN-G’s Indian Spirit, bulldog from Nederland, Vic the Bulldog from Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School.

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is also full of flowers, each carried by someone committed to ending this disease.

Each registered participant will receive a “Promise Garden” flower – Blue (represents someone living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia); Purple (for those who have lose someone to Alzheimer’s); Yellow (someone who is currently supporting or caring for a person living with the disease); and Orange (those who support the cause and the Association’s vision).

All funds raised through Walk to End Alzheimer’s further the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.

The Alzheimer's Association offers a helpline, 24 hours a day, seven days a week – (800) 272-3900.

“We want to bring awareness with this walk for the Alzheimer’s Association and all the caregivers that are involved,” Briggs said. “The walk not only raises money for the Alzheimer’s Association, but also highlights the reach Alzheimer’s has in those it affects – not just those diagnosed.”

Also returning is the in-person Caregiver Support Group, which meets every second Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. at St. Anne Catholic Church (2715 Calder Ave.) in Beaumont. The group is free to attend, but registration is required by calling (800) 272-3900. The next scheduled support group is Thursday, Oct. 13.

The facilitators are trained volunteers from the area. Volunteers go through extensive training, so they know how to lead the groups and maintain relationships with everyone that comes. 

“Caring for individuals living with Alzheimer’s can be a stressful and difficult experience as the disease slowly takes over”, said Briggs. “Family and friends are left to watch helplessly as their loved one begins to forget even the most basic of tasks, such as drinking water or eating. These support groups can help those learn how to deal with individuals with this disease.

“It’s very hard and it’s very taxing. It takes a lot of time, patience and money. And the support of the association really helps those who go through these struggles. There are support groups and programs to help. So, any and all support we can, we want to give to these caregivers.”

Next year’s Family Portrait Luncheon benefitting the Alzheimer’s Association is scheduled for Thursday, May 11, 2023, at the MCM Eleganté.

“We need your support as we fight for a cause that has not only touched our families, but also many of our friends and their families,” added Briggs. “No one is immune to its impact. It’s very important for us to bring awareness to our community and to let them know we are here with them every step of the way.”

For more information about the walk, call (409) 833-1613.

-Chad Cooper, Entertainment Editor