Malden Man Runs Boston Marathon for Alzheimer’s Association

The following was released by the Alzheimer’s Association:

Malden’s Brian Johnston is set to take on the 2019 Boston Marathon as a member of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Team End ALZ. Wearing purple, the color of the Alzheimer’s movement, he will make his way from Hopkinton to Boston with 30,000 other runners on Monday, April 15.

Brian lost his mother to Alzheimer's on November 16, 2017 at only 61 years old. He is running to support anyone affected by the disease.

“We could see signs of forgetfulness even before her diagnosis,” said Johnston. “She was the most kind, caring, loving person, and I was so fortunate to have her as my mom, but she is dearly missed every single day.”

Team End ALZ is the official athletic fundraising program of the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter. As part of the John Hancock Charity Program, Boston Marathon Team End ALZ runners raised awareness and over $500,000 for Alzheimer’s care, support and research in 2018.

“The Alzheimer’s Association addresses the global dementia crisis by providing education and support to the millions who face dementia every day, while advancing vital research toward methods of treatment, prevention and, ultimately, a cure,” shared Jim Wessler, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH Chapter. “We are grateful for our dedicated Boston Marathon runners for support our mission and our vision of a world without Alzheimer’s.”