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lzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. In the United States, more than 5 million people are living with the disease. As the baby boomers age, those numbers will rise dramatically and by 2050, up to 16 million people will have the disease.

In 2014, due to the combined efforts of local businesses, long-term care communities and dedicated individuals , we raised more than $11,000 during the Robeson County Alzheimer’s Walk for Memory, a fundraiser for Alzheimer’s North Carolina Inc. We turn to you again this year to help us reach our goal of $12,000.

You can help us raise awareness of this dreaded, traumatic, debilitating, non-discriminating, frustrating, depressing and tragic disease. Our organization is dedicated to providing education, support and services to individuals with dementia, their families, health-care professionals and the general public while raising awareness and funding for research. One hundred percent of donations remain in North Carolina to assist families affected by dementia. Some of the services offered are an 800 Helpline, support groups, Educational and Training Programs for families and professionals, Lending Library of books and videos, Family Resource Center, free information packets, individual and family counseling, newsletter, and emergency respite.

If you have ever had a family member, friend or an acquaintance with Alzheimer’s disease, then you know the devastation of the physical, emotional, spiritual, and financial burdens that are shouldered by not only the person with Alzheimer’s, but family and friends also.

We invite everyone to walk with us on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2015 at Wesley Pines Retirement Community. Registration will begin at 9 a.m., our speaker and welcome introduction will be at 9:30 a.m. and the walk will start at 10 a.m.

If you would like to learn more about the 2015 Robeson County Alzheimer’s Walk for Memory, please contact Kimberly Branch at (910) 739-6048 or kimberly.branch@goldenliving.com or contact Amy Hammond at (910) 272-3006 or ahammond@umrh.org.

Kimberly Branch

Amy Hammond

Co-chairpersons

2015 Robeson County Alzheimer’s Walk for Memory