Alzheimer’s Tennessee to host three East Tennessee walks in April
Alzheimer’s Tennessee is inviting families, friends and neighbors from across East Tennessee to take part in three community walks this April to honor loved ones, celebrate “Tennessee Originals” and raise support for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
The Knoxville Walk will be held Saturday, April 11, at Knoxville Catholic High School in Knoxville.
The 5 County Walk will take place Saturday, April 18, at Lakefront Park in Clinton.
The Foothills Walk is set for Saturday, April 25, at Alcoa High School.
Each event offers the community an opportunity to participate, remember loved ones and help support Alzheimer’s Tennessee’s work across the region.
For many in East Tennessee, the walks are personal.
“Alzheimer’s Tennessee is very special to me,” said Connie Lane, co-chair of the Knoxville Walk. “Before my mom passed in 2008, I lived the worst day of my life. That’s when I reached out to Alzheimer’s Tennessee, and they were there to help me.”
Stories like Lane’s echo across the region.
Charles West, whose family first turned to Alzheimer’s Tennessee two decades ago, said, “So many people are touched by Alzheimer’s disease. It affects all walks of life, no matter where you come from.”
Each walk this spring celebrates “Tennessee Originals” — people and organizations with deep roots in the Volunteer State who are dedicated to serving Tennesseans.
Since 1983, Alzheimer’s Tennessee has supported families through local offices, research and community programs.
“We all need to get involved and work together as a community,” West said.
Linda Spangler, a planning committee member for the 5 County Walk and captain of the Secret City Hikers, said she has seen the disease affect her own family.
“I grew up with a grandparent who had Alzheimer’s, and my mother was diagnosed and we lost her to Alzheimer’s about five years ago,” Spangler said. “I feel this is a wonderful cause to get behind and do what you can to raise funds for a cure. It affects so many families.”
Each Saturday morning walk will include celebration, remembrance and hope.
Participants are invited to bring a photo of a loved one to add to a tribute wall. Events also will include complimentary food, door prizes and live music.
“There’s a way for everyone to help, at every level,” Edward Harper, a supporter of Alzheimer’s Tennessee, said. “Not everyone has to be a fundraiser — you might support the infrastructure, or help in other ways. That’s why I continue to show up for Alzheimer’s Tennessee.”
All proceeds from the walks will benefit Alzheimer’s Tennessee and remain in Tennessee to directly support local families.
The organization’s mission is to serve those facing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, promote brain health through education, and champion research, prevention and treatment efforts.
