The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting Tifton area residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s^® on Saturday, October 16 at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton.

On Walk day, participants honor 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.

While plans are moving forward to host Tifton Walk in person, the health and safety of participants, staff and volunteers remain the top priorities. Tifton Walk will implement safety protocols including physical distancing, masks (where required), contactless registration, hand sanitizing stations and more. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state and local guidelines will be adhered to ensure Walk events are safe for attendees. Options will be offered to participate online and in local neighborhoods.

“As an Executive Director for senior living centers, I have seen the toll this dreaded disease takes on everyone involved”, added Chris Beckham, co-chair, 2021 Tifton Walk to End Alzheimer’s.  “My co-chair Joey Marta and I are united in our efforts as being the leading senior care facilities in Tifton to see our first survivor of Alzheimer's disease.  Being the Co-Chairs for the Walk to End Alzheimer's is only a small way that we feel we can help with the efforts of the Alzheimer's Association”, added Beckham.

More than 6 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 Georgia alone, there are more than 150,000 people living with the disease and 334,000 caregivers. 

To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit: alz.org/walk.