Eastside steps up for the Walk to End Alzheimer's Oct. 10

Hundreds of area residents will participate in the Eastside Walk to End Alzheimer’s this Saturday, October 10. To ensure the safety of all involved, a large gathering will not be held. Instead, the Walk will be everywhere — on every sidewalk, track and trail across the Eastside.

On Saturday, participants will gather online at 9:30 a.m. for the Opening and Promise Garden Ceremony hosted by Jim Dever from KING-5 Evening. People will then walk on their own or in small groups of family and friends in the location of their choice.

Participants and the general public are welcome to visit a drive-by Promise Garden at Marymoor Park. The iconic Promise Garden pays tribute to all people affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, with colorful pinwheel flowers representing our many reasons to end the disease. The display will be available for viewing purposes only from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. just north of NE Marymoor Park Way next to baseball field #8.

The Alzheimer’s Association is also offering new ways to enhance and enjoy the Walk to End Alzheimer’s experience. Participants may download the Walk to End Alzheimer’s mobile app to track their steps and share their progress on social media. There is also a new, interactive website called “Walk Mainstage” where people can share stories and photos, gather resources and learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association.

In Washington, there are currently 120,000 people age 65+ living with Alzheimer’s — a progressive and fatal brain disease that is the third leading cause of death in the state. Another 353,000 Washingtonians are serving as unpaid family caregivers supporting a loved one with dementia.

Last year, the Eastside Walk to End Alzheimer’s raised over $125,000 to fight Alzheimer’s disease and fund local support programs. The Alzheimer’s Association Washington State Chapter provides a variety of care and support services for people facing the disease, including a free 24/7 Helpline (1.800.272.3900), support groups, advocacy and education.

Registration for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is free and every participant will receive five Walk to End Alzheimer’s flags to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s in their neighborhoods. Anyone who donates or raises $100 or more will also receive a 2020 Walk to End Alzheimer’s t-shirt. Learn more and register today at alzwa.org/walk or by calling 1.800.272.3900.

***Please follow CDC guidelines and recommendations from local health officials when deciding to walk with those outside of your household.***