“We sincerely thank the many dedicated Walk participants, volunteers and sponsors who made the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Gaston, Cleveland and Lincoln Counties a tremendous success,” said Katherine L. Lambert, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter. “The funds raised will help fuel disease research while also providing critical care and support to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia.”

On Walk day, participants honored 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.

The day also featured fun, all-ages entertainment and family-friendly music. Pete Kaliner with WBT 1110 AM Radio emceed the event. Kaliner, who has supported the Alzheimer’s Association for about two decades, lost his grandfather to Alzheimer’s when he was in high school.

Nearly 7 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 North Carolina alone, there are more than 210,000 people living with the disease and 373,000 caregivers.

·         Gaston County has an Alzheimer's prevalence rate of 11.1% in its age 65 and older population.

·         Cleveland County has an Alzheimer's prevalence rate of 11.1% in its age 65 and older population.

·         Lincoln County has an Alzheimer's prevalence rate of 9.9% in its age 65 and older population.

Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® - The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s. 

Alzheimer's Association® - The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org.

About the Alzheimer’s Association - Western Carolina Chapter: The Western Carolina Chapter provides patient and family services, information and referral, education, and advocacy in 49 central and western North Carolina counties. It offers opportunities to get involved and to make a difference, in addition to a variety of services including: a 24/7 Helpline, support groups, educational programs, and care consultations. For more information about Alzheimer's disease or the Alzheimer's Association - Western Carolina Chapter, visit alz.org/northcarolina or call (800) 272-3900. For the latest news and updates, follow us on Facebook,  X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.