Aiken Welcomes Hope and Community at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s
This past Saturday, the charming city of Aiken, South Carolina, came alive with compassion and determination as locals gathered for the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Newberry Street. With a sunny sky and a few clouds floating by, the atmosphere was just right for a heartfelt gathering aimed at spreading awareness and raising much-needed funds in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.
A Day to Remember
On September 21, 2024, around 50 participants donned their walking shoes not just to make strides down the street but also to honor loved ones affected by this heartbreaking illness. Each walker carried a flower in vibrant colors—each representing a unique story and connection to Alzheimer’s. The purple flowers spoke of loss for those who have passed away, yellow stood for caregivers, blue represented those currently battling the disease, and orange was for those who stand united in support.
Heartfelt Stories from Participants
Among the many participants were Wanda and Grady Sanders, a couple living through the challenges of Alzheimer’s together. Grady, diagnosed at just 54 years old, was a poignant reminder of the impact this illness has. Sharing their journey, Wanda emphasized their resolve: “We decided that when he was diagnosed, we were going to continue to live the life we are living.” Their story resonated deeply, illustrating how their love and faith have helped them face each day while creating cherished memories, whether it’s a trip to the beach or a visit to Disney World.
Meanwhile, Debbie Christopher, a dedicated member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, rang a bell during the event to signify hope and remembrance. She has participated in walks since 2012 to honor her loved ones who fought against Alzheimer’s. “I walk for my loved ones that have succumbed to Alzheimer’s,” she shared, embodying the collective spirit of remembrance present on that day.
Community Support and Awareness
Mark Ward, who coordinated the event, expressed the event’s objective: “We just want to bring the community together to raise awareness.” With over 6 million Americans currently living with Alzheimer’s and an estimated 95,000 in South Carolina, the need for community support is more crucial than ever. Ward reflected on his personal experiences with the disease, having watched family members suffer from it. His hope? A brighter future without Alzheimer’s.
Attendees like Denna Rutland and Jessy Fonseca, who work in mental health and have personal connections to Alzheimer’s, emphasized the importance of participation. “Together we can actually do something and bring more awareness to people,” Fonseca stated, highlighting the collective effort necessary to support those who may not have the means to access appropriate care.
Walking Towards a Future Without Alzheimer’s
As each participant crossed the finish line, the event wasn’t just about raising funds; it was a celebration of lives intertwined by love, loss, and hope. Wade Navarre, holding a white flower intended to symbolize the future first survivor of Alzheimer’s, rang the bell as walkers completed their journey—a powerful reminder that while Alzheimer’s is daunting, community support shines brightly against it.
Even as challenges loom over their future, Wanda Sanders encouraged everyone to cherish each moment—“It’s good to look forward to things, but don’t squander your time and your loved ones’ time by worrying about the future all the time,” she advised. “Enjoy today.”
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Aiken was not merely an event; it was a profound gathering of hearts committed to turning the tide against a disease that touches so many lives. Hope, strength, and unity were the true champions of the day, fueling the mission to raise awareness and ultimately find a cure for Alzheimer’s.
