Independence Village hosts 3rd Annual Mini-Walk for Alzheimer’s Association

Submitted by Noel Joyce

For the third year in a row, residents and employees of Independence Village of Avon Lake have done their part to “Walk to End Alzheimer’s.”

The seniors took part in an event affiliated with the official Sept. 21 West Side Walk to Remember at All Pro Stadium in Avon.

Some of their seniors use walkers, canes or wheelchairs, and most are unable to walk the 3 or 1-mile options at the official West Side Walk.

But it hasn’t kept them from gathering together to walk, or wheel about the pretty courtyard inside the Independence Village community.

This marks the third year Jeff Knight, general manager, and Judy Trivett, team captain, have organized a mini- walk in the courtyard.

After dinner the residents gather outside where they walk as many laps of the winding sidewalk as they wish, make a donation and enjoy visiting together for a good cause.

Three years ago, the weather was too hot, and only seven residents walked laps inside the building. Last year the word spread, and about 40 walked outside in more cooperative weather.

This year more than 50 participated and raised over $500 for their team. Most of the walkers had spouses, family members, or close friends who were affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia and knew how important it was to support the fight for a world without this epidemic disease.

All funds support the Alzheimer’s Association’s research for a cure or treatment, and free support services to caregivers and those living with the disease.

It’s not too late to donate to the West Side Walk and the Alzheimer’s Association.Go to www.alz.org/cleveland & follow the prompts to donate to the Avon Walk.