Supporters of the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County took steps to support the nonprofit during the 20th annual Walk to Remember at Riverside Park.

After a flag presentation by the Sebastian River High School NJROTC color guard, and the singing of the National Anthem by Moreen Burkart, the walkers, which included 41 teams, warmed up with John Sammartano. To celebrate the milestone anniversary, there was also a life-size birthday cake.

“Over 6,000 residents of this county are affected by some form of dementia, and over 1,000 are affected by some form of a movement disorder like Parkinson’s, and there are 827,000 unpaid caregivers,” said Peggy Cunningham, executive director of the nonprofit.

Funds raised at the event will support the 45 free programs offered by the Alzheimer and Parkinson’s Association to individuals affected by neurodegenerative diseases and their caregivers.

For the past 40 years, the nonprofit has provided memory screening, social respite, memory programs, movement classes, support groups, virtual programs, activity kits, a resource library, education, and dementia training to residents who are affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, or movement disorders, such as those with Parkinson’s.

Additionally, the Project Lifesaver program, a collaborative effort with the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, Indian River County Sheriff’s Office and the Treasure Coast Pilot Club, gives caregivers an added level of security by outfitting individuals who might wander off with a personalized radio transmitter that can be tracked by local law enforcement.
“It is because of people like you who are raising funds and awareness that our impact will continue to grow as this need grows,” said Cunningham.

Thanks to participants and a record-breaking 43 sponsors, the organization has raised more than $161,000 toward its $200,000 goal, with fundraising continuing through Dec. 31.

For more information, visit AlzPark.org.

Photos by Joshua Kodis