9/4/13 - While there is no cure and no way to stop or slow the progression of Alzheimerâs, there is help and resources available to those that have been touched by the disease. The Brighton Walk to End Alzheimer's is this Sunday and organizers say itâs a time to come together as a community and walk to raise awareness and let people know there are resources available, whether they are suffering from the disease or caring for someone who is. It helps raise funds to advance care, support, research and education. There is no registration fee to walk and no minimum fundraising requirement. The Alzheimerâs Association Michigan Great Lakes Chapter Executive Director Jen Howard says there are more than five million people in the United States with the disease, close to 200,000 in the state and an estimated 5,000 in Livingston County. She tells WHMI it doesnât just affect those who are older because there is also early onset, which can affect people in their 20âs, 30âs or 40âs. Howard says theyâre expecting a big turnout with more than 500 participants and registration starts at noon this Sunday, with the opening ceremonies at 1pm and lots of music and activities during the afternoon. Two routes are offered; either 1.5 miles or 3 miles around the Mill Pond and participants will also receive promise garden flowers that are pinwheels. The flowers represent the diverse reasons everyone has gathered and each flower carries a personal hand-written message to further strengthen their dedication. Details and registration information can be found through the link below. (JM)
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