By Mark Hallum
The Alzheimer’s Association is hosting its Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Bayside Sept. 17 at Little Bay Park and is inviting residents of Queens to get involved in the cause. The group advocates for enrollment in clinical studies to support programs and services for patients. The walk will also honor those affected by the disease.
Registration opens at 9 a.m. for the walk, which will kick off at 10 a.m. and span 2.5 miles. People attending will also enjoy entertainment for the entire family and there will be a special tribute to the victims of Alzheimer’s.
The Promise Garden ceremony, an act where participants raise flowers representing their promise to remember the victims as well as honor, care and fight for those living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic, according to the association, and the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. It is expected that with the number of aging Baby Boomers, the number of people living with the disease will grow far beyond the more than 5 million Americans currently diagnosed. The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that as many as 16 million will have the illness by 2050.
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is one of the world’s largest events to raise funds for care, support and research for the disease, and since 1989 has gathered support from millions of Americans.
Reach reporter Mark Hallum by e-mail at mhall
