Columbia Rallies for Alzheimer’s Awareness with Walk at Segra Park
Columbia, S.C. was buzzing with energy this past Saturday as a sea of purple filled the Bull Street District for the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The event drew over 800 participants, all united in a common cause to raise both support and awareness for individuals impacted by this devastating disease. Strolling around the beautiful Segra Park, it was heartwarming to see residents from all corners of the Midlands coming together to make a difference.
A Personal Journey
Among the crowd was State Senator Katrina Shealy, who shared her deeply personal connection to the cause. “My husband has had Alzheimer’s for 10 years now,” she revealed candidly. “Being a caregiver is a challenging role, but it has taught me a lot about resilience.” It was clear from her words that while Alzheimer’s is serious, there is hope on the horizon. She mentioned new research that suggests early diagnosis could lead to effective treatments, a shimmer of light for those affected.
Community Impact and Fundraising
This year marked the 5th anniversary of the walk at Segra Park, a tradition that started roughly three decades ago. Over the years, the community’s efforts have contributed significantly to funding research and providing support. This year alone, participants raised a remarkable $165,000, supporting the hundreds of thousands living with Alzheimer’s in South Carolina.
Team Spirit at the Event
Ashton Houghton, the Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association South Carolina Chapter, commented, “It’s a great team effort here today. We’re providing care and support for those living with the disease while funding vital research for a future cure.” The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and camaraderie, each step taken bringing hope to families grappling with the effects of Alzheimer’s.
Lessons on the Walk
Brad Wolfe, a local resident, came out to walk alongside his two sons, Brayden and Jack, in honor of their family’s experience. Brad’s grandmother was diagnosed four years ago, while his grandfather had succumbed to the disease about a decade ago. Wolfe explained his motivation, saying, “I wanted my sons to learn the importance of raising awareness. This walk is more than just a stroll; it’s about showing them where their money goes and connecting with others in a similar situation.”
Looking Ahead
Wolfe, inspired by the event, has plans to return next year with his family. “We’ll be back in 2025, for sure,” he stated with conviction. For families like the Wolfes, the walk is an opportunity not only to contribute but also to bond over shared experiences and learn more about a disease that has affected them so dearly.
Join the Cause
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that community engagement can make. For those looking to support the Alzheimer’s Association, there are plenty of resources available that provide information on how to get involved and make a meaningful contribution. Sharing experiences and gathering knowledge can go a long way in raising awareness for this critical cause.
In conclusion, the event at Segra Park highlighted the community’s commitment to fighting Alzheimer’s together. As friends, families, and leaders gathered, it showcased that with collective efforts, there is hope for those affected by the disease and a promising future for research and treatment.
