WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S: JOIN US!

Join a team of staff, residents and family members as they participate in a walk to end Alzheimer’s Disease on October 13 in Wichita.

The two-mile walk starts at 11 a.m. (with registration opening at 8 a.m. and a ceremony at 10 a.m.) at Intrust Bank Arena in downtown Wichita. Anyone can sign up to walk, and there is no registration fee. However participants are encouraged to make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.

This is the eighth year that activities director Melinda Ebersole has coordinated a team from the community, and while the reason behind the event is somber, she finds the walk itself to be both uplifting and inspiring.

“I just love seeing the different families and the kids that are involved,” said Melinda. “It’s a very sad disease, but that day brings out how much support and love is there for the families and caretakers that go through this.”

This year, the team has set a goal of raising $1,205. In addition to funds raised through direct donations, the community will also be selling custom t-shirts with the proceeds going to the Alzheimer’s Association. This year’s shirt features a picture of an elephant with the words, “Memories Matter” on the front and the words, “Hope, Fight, Cure” on the back. Shirts are $15 each.

Besides being a fun way to raise additional money for the fight against Alzheimer’s, the shirts also serve as a tribute to those affected by the disease within the community.

“Since we take care of so many residents with the disease, it holds special place in our hearts and (having the shirts) makes it mean a little more,” said Melinda. “We take pride in them, and each year there’s a different design.”

To purchase a shirt, stop by Melinda’s office or email her at mebersole@pmma.org. Registration for the walk can be completed on the Wichita Alzheimer’s Walk webpage by searching for Newton Presbyterian Manor under “Find a Team” or click here.

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