By Michelle Colesanti
It is estimated that 5.3 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease. About 200,000 individuals are under the age of 65, and almost two-thirds of those with Alzheimer’s are women. If you are not affected in some way by Alzheimer’s or in its care, you probably know someone who is.
For the seventh year, the SouthShore community will gather together to raise money for Alzheimer’s research. The 2015 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – South Shore Area, will take place on Saturday, October 17 at 10 a.m. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and after the walk guests can join in for the post-walk festivities where food and beverages will be provided free of charge for all walkers. Every registered participant will receive a T-shirt after achieving the fundraising minimum of $100.
The walk will begin at Sun City Center United Methodist Church, located at 1210 Del Webb Blvd. W. The two mile walk will begin by heading north on Del Webb Boulevard to the Freedom Plaza nature trail. There will be a bus at the one mile mark for those who want a ride back. The walk route is handicapped accessible. Strollers are allowed, but skateboards, bicycles, inline skates and wheelie footwear are discouraged. No pets are allowed.
According to Community Relations Director at Inspired Living at Sun City Center, Connie Lesko, “Although the actual walk is in Sun City Center, this walk is truly a SouthShore Walk and we would not be successful without surrounding communities.”
Lesko is also the chair of this year’s walk and has been chairperson every year since its inception.
“The first year we raised $20,000. Last year almost $75,000. My personal goal is always $1 more than we raised last year. Our walk is a grassroots effort and successful because of the many small donations we receive. I am excited about every $10 donation,” said Lesko.
There is no minimum amount to be raised per team and there is no minimum number of people on a team.
People are encouraged to register online and use their network to raise funds by using the tools on the website or posting on their Facebook page.
For more information, call Lesko at 927-1147 or register at http://bit.ly/1JocHc6.
