Alzheimer's Association urges people to participate in ‘Walk to End Alzheimer's’

The Alzheimer's Association® is calling on people to "get in the Purple Zone" and get behind the cause that affects more than 5 million people in the U.S. In Boston, the iconic Leonard P. Zakim Memorial Bridge will be lit purple Friday, August 28 to kick things off for a month of "Purple Zone." The Alzheimer's Association's, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter has scheduled 11 fundraising walks across the two states, purple lights will shine from landmark buildings and to add to the fun, a photo-call for pets dressed in purple garb, the signature color of the Alzheimer's cause.

"This is our way of saying that we need everyone to care about fighting Alzheimer's, and the time is now," said Betsy Fitzgerald-Campbell, VP of Communications at the MA/NH Chapter. "We're asking people to sign up for the Walk to End Alzheimer's today. There are so many families who are living with Alzheimer's. It's a cruel disease that hits families hard, financially and emotionally. The Walk to End Alzheimer's® and getting into the Purple Zone are ways for everyone to commit to changing the trajectory of the disease."

Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death. While age is the greatest risk factor, it can occur in those as young as 40, according to the Alzheimer's Association. There are no effective treatments or cures, but the Alzheimer's Association is hoping to change that with increased funding for research.

Walk to End Alzheimer's is the nation's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research. Fitzgerald-Campbell said the Alzheimer's Association is hoping for a record year. Last year, more than 24,000 people in Massachusetts and New Hampshire participated in Walk events. The Alzheimer's Association's goal this year is have 30,000 participate.

"We all know someone affected by Alzheimer's. There's still some misconception that Alzheimer's is just part of getting old," said Fitzgerald-Campbell. "It's a degenerative, fatal disease of the brain, and we need treatments and a cure. We want people to get in the game and help us win this battle."

Walk to End Alzheimer's locations:
September 19: Cheshire and Plymouth, MA
September 20: Andover, MA
September 26: Manchester, NH
September 27: Holyoke and Boston, MA
October 3: Foxborough, MA and Keene, NH
October 4: Portsmouth, NH and Worcester and New Bedford, MA.