The Walk to End Alzheimer’s will return to Owensboro on September 20, with hundreds expected to gather at Smothers Park in support of Alzheimer’s care, support, and research.
The day begins at 9 a.m. with registration and team check-ins, followed by the Promise Garden ceremony at 9:45 a.m. The walk steps off at 10 a.m. The event is open to teams of all sizes, from small family groups to large corporate contingents. There is no entry fee, but participants are encouraged to set a fundraising goal.
“Our goal is to fundraise, but the day itself is about so much more,” said event coordinator Megan Irish. “We like to say it’s one of our biggest support groups in the community. If you’ve recently lost a loved one to the disease, or you’re someone who’s been diagnosed, you’ll see how many people care in the Owensboro community.”
The Owensboro walk is part of a larger effort by the Alzheimer’s Association’s Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana Chapter, which hosts 12 walks in the region. Nationwide, about 600 walks take place each fall. Proceeds help fund research, including recent advancements like a blood test that can detect the presence of Alzheimer’s, allowing for earlier intervention and more treatment options.
Irish said most of the Association’s funding goes toward research, but the organization also provides year-round education programs, caregiver support groups, and a 24/7 helpline staffed by master’s-level clinicians. The helpline (800-272-3900) is available to anyone, from caregivers in crisis to those seeking a second opinion or help finding resources.
“You can call at two in the morning if you’re facing a crisis situation, and they can help coach you through it,” Irish said. “They understand the disease and can point you in the right direction.”
While final details are still being worked out, Irish said they expect to have at least a coffee truck at the event, and they are exploring possible “give back” days with nearby restaurants to benefit the cause.
Irish encouraged early registration to help organizers prepare for the day. More details, including team sign-up, are available here.
