Taking steps for a great cause

Walk to End Alzheimer’s coming to Denver Sept. 21

By the Thirst Team

What’s a great way to have fun while raising awareness for a disease that brings sorrow to nearly every family in the state? Denver’s 35th anniversary Walk to End Alzheimer’s is set for Sept. 21, and the masses will gather to raise funds and celebrate the next step in eradication.

Rebecca Engle, director of the Denver Walk, said the local organization hopes to raise more than a million dollars to support new and promising treatments.

“As the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research, we are excited about new treatments to help slow the progression of the disease,” Engle said. “The FDA has approved two drugs to treat early Alzheimer’s disease, including people living with mild cognitive impairment.”

Alzheimer’s affects parts of the brain that control language, thought and memory. It’s the most common form of dementia and it’s estimated to impact one of three seniors.

It’s easy to sign up as a participant, or to register a team. Because there are 12 different Walks throughout Colorado, choosing one close to home is convenient. Check out
act.alz.org/denverwalk to learn how to support the cause.

Engle said the fundraiser has continued to grow each year following the Covid-19 outbreak. 

“This year’s fundraising goal is $1.2 million, so we are definitely back and ready to raise critical funds,” she said. “We are always looking for volunteers to help as well.”

Sparks Financial is the local Presenting Sponsor for 2024 and numerous other businesses support the effort in a big way.

Because more than 75,000 Coloradans live with Alzheimer’s, the gathering each September is full of families and friends who have a strong bond in supporting loved ones.

In addition to the Denver event, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s also is coming to these other Colorado locations:
Montrose - Sept. 14
Pueblo - Sept. 14
Durango - Sept. 21
Colorado Springs - Sept. 28
Greeley - Oct. 5
Fort Collins - Oct. 5
Grand Junction - Oct. 5
Boulder - Oct. 5