A large group of participants gathered in downtown Raleigh for a collective walk against Alzheimer's disease. The 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer's, an annual event symbolizing shared commitment, saw about 2,000 individuals traversing the city’s streets. According to CBS 17 News, these walkers, organized into over 335 teams, engaged in not only a physical activity but also a fundraising effort, with nearly $500,000 raised so far this season.
Participants carried flowers of various colors, each representing their personal connection to Alzheimer's. According to a report by ABC11, these flowers culminated in a "promise garden ceremony." John-Fuller said in an interview with the same source, "Families that are impacted by Alzheimer's, another form of dementia. Sometimes it's very isolating. And when you walk here onto the campus...we're having this walk today."
The focus of this event extends beyond financial contributions. Christina John-Fuller, the Regional Director for the Alzheimer's Association, highlighted the direct impact of these efforts, "It helps make sure that we’re taking care of families right here in the Triangle and across Eastern North Carolina," she told CBS 17 News. This support is essential, as approximately 373,000 people in North Carolina are caregivers for the 210,000 residents living with Alzheimer's in the state. Nationally, the number rises to nearly 7 million patients.
