The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting Westchester County residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Westchester on Sunday, October 4 at Westchester Community College in Valhalla. Thank you to our Local Presenting Sponsor for the walk, Westchester Medical Center Health Network.
Esther McCarthy, Westchester Walk to End Alzheimer’s Director for the Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter, says “This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. With new treatments and proven lifestyle habits that support brain health, there is real hope. Together, we can build a brain‑healthy future and help end this disease. We invite everyone to join us by forming a team to raise awareness and funds for families facing Alzheimer’s today.”
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. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.
Janette Licastrino, Westchester Walk to End Alzheimer’s committee member, is a current caregiver and walks in honor of her mother, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, as well as the family members that she has lost to this disease: “I have been touched by almost every Promise Garden flower on walk day. The best advice that I have been given of this journey is that the love and support from your family and friends is the best medicine for someone diagnosed with dementia. Don’t ever stop being by your loved one’s side and one day we will raise that white flower and have a cure for Alzheimer’s.”
More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, nearly 12 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In New York, more than 426,500 people are living with the disease (23,200 in Westchester County) and 656,000 caregivers. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s raises funds for research initiatives and for care and support programs for families impacted by this disease.
To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit WestchesterWalk.org.
