In blustery and rainy conditions last Saturday, about three dozen Cook County residents were out in Grand Marais to raise money in a “Walk to End Alzheimers.”
“The spirits of everyone that attended was amazing. No one complained,” said Julie Wilson, Executive Director of Cook County Care Partners which sponsored this event. Care Partners plans to make this an annual event.
Although a final tally is not complete, the fundraiser, which had a goal to raise $2,000, raised almost $3,500. “We are waiting for the final amount, but Team Grand Marais far exceeded our financial goal,” Wilson said.
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the fifth leading cause of death for Americans over 65.
The Alzheimer’s Association reports, “Those living in rural America are more likely to develop the disease, less likely to receive an early diagnosis, and more likely to encounter barriers when seeking assistance.”
Care Partners of Cook County is working with the Association to help its efforts to bring increased local awareness of AD, treatment options, and resources for help.
Wilson said, “I think those that have experienced (or are experiencing) Alzheimer’s disease with a loved one, walked (Saturday) knowing that holding on to your umbrella and trying not to get pulled away, or walking until you’re soaked and weary is a picture of the disease we all want to see come to an end.”
