“Walk to End Alzheimer’s” is world’s largest event dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research
The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting Milwaukee County residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” on September 18, 2022 at Henry Maier Festival Park, 639 E. Summerfest Pl., Milwaukee. The gates open at 8:00 a.m., with a special Opening Ceremony at 9:30 a.m. A two-mile walk kicks off at 10:00 a.m. as you will experience the sites of the Milwaukee skyline as you walk around Lakeshore Park.
The Walk is chaired by Gaurie Rodman, Sr. Director of Real Estate Strategy and Development, Aptura, a Direct Supply Company; Rachel Schneider, VP Sustainability & EHS, Molson Coors Beverage Company; and Kip Ritchie, Chief Operations Officer, Potawatomi Business Development Corporation.
“We’re so excited to be joining together this year as a Walk community,” said Rodman. “The need is stronger than ever to support all those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. With the dollars raised, the Alzheimer’s Association can continue to provide care and support to families on this difficult journey, while also advancing critical research toward methods of treatment and prevention.”
“Many of us are navigating the emotional, physical and financial impacts of supporting a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia,” said Schneider. “Every journey is different, but one thing is common – we all need help and support. The Alzheimer’s Association helps get the support to where it is needed most. I’m so grateful for all the walkers, sponsors and donors for contributing their time and treasure to supporting the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association.
“I am proud to support the 2022 Walk to End Alzheimer’s and look forward to being a part of the Walk community,” said Ritchie. “Alzheimer’s and dementia significantly impact Indian Country, affecting one in three Tribal elders. It’s important to us to support this effort, support our community, and do our part to end this tragic disease.”
Joe, host of Feel Good Mornings with Joe on B 93.3, will serve as master of ceremonies to welcome thousands of individuals, families, and members of the corporate and small business community. On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease.
The colors of the Promise Garden flowers represent people’s connection to Alzheimer’s — their personal reasons to end the disease. At the event, walkers will be greeted by mascots and characters, and be able to enjoy a “Purple Clubhouse” with family activities and a Caregiver Sanctuary, along with music entertainment.
We are also excited to share that Matt Lepay, and Paul Braun, two of the most recognized voices in Wisconsin sports, are returning as Honorary Co-Chairs of the 2022 Walk to End Alzheimer’s in 27 communities across Wisconsin. These acclaimed broadcasters each have had family members impacted by Alzheimer’s and are leading the “Sportscasters Against Alzheimer’s” team. Lepay is the current voice of Wisconsin Badgers sports doing play-by-play for Badgers’ football and basketball and Braun is the former voice of Badger’s men’s hockey.
More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
In Wisconsin, there are more than 120,000 people living with the disease and 198,000 serving as caregivers. In Milwaukee County alone, more than 14,000 individuals age 65 and older are living with dementia.
How to register
To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit: act.alz.org/Milwaukee. Pre-registration is encouraged. For questions or assistance, please call 800.272.3900.
Sponsors
The Alzheimer’s Association Wisconsin Chapter thanks the numerous volunteers and sponsors of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, including National Presenting Sponsors – Edward Jones and CVS Health, and statewide sponsors including Azura, Park Vista Senior Living & the Greywolf Foundation, MP Systems, Inc., CarePatrol, MyChoice Wisconsin, Associated Bank, Ascension, TDS Fiber, Heritage and LOCALiQ, and local media partner B93.3.