Full of Flowers: Ardmore Alzheimer's walk returns to Central Park
More than 67,000 Oklahomans are currently living with condition listed as the sixth most prevalent cause of death in the United States: Alzheimer’s and dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia. It causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior and is not considered a normal part of aging.
"Like flowers we don't stop when something gets in our way," said Jessica Pfau, the emcee for the event as well as the executive director of Lighthouse Behavioral Wellness. "We keep pushing for that breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer's and other dementias."
The Ardmore Walk to End Alzheimer’s event to raise awareness and funds toward research for a cure, risk reduction and better quality care for those with the disease is held annually. Groups and individuals including teams from Cross Timbers Hospice, 1NB, Papaw’s Life Memories, Citizens Bank and Trust, Edward Jones, Complete OK, Tew End ALZ, Loyalists and Paschall-Santee generated just over $8,500 by Saturday morning.
Participants carry flowers, each symbolic of their determination to improve outcomes and for an end to the disease, of loved ones lost to Alzheimer's, and for some, living with Alzheimer's now.
“Last year, the Ardmore Walk to End Alzheimer’s raised right around $10,000,” said Nellie Windsor, director of communications for the Alzheimer’s Association Oklahoma Chapter. “Teams and individuals can keep working on their fundraising through the end of the year. There are tools for online events in addition to the Walk itself to help with that.” The organization's goal for 2021 is $49,000.
Those taking part in the event last year did so remotely – walking in their neighborhoods and raising funds entirely online due to COVID-19 concerns. This year, a hybrid of Walking from Home or participation in the in-person event was offered.
"With this colorful display I am confident that one day we will add another flower to this garden. A white flower that represents the first survivor," Pfau said. "Until that beautiful day happens, we must not back down." Pfau then led the assembled walkers around Central Park, where they were cheered on by local youth.
For more information about the Walk, fundraisers or to access resources, visit ardmorewalk.org.
This article originally appeared on The Daily Ardmoreite: Ardmore Alzheimer's walk returns to Central Park this year
