Alzheimer’s Association 2021 Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Hawaii Island is shifting to a walk-from-home format on Saturday, Sept. 18. 

“To ensure the safety of our Walk participants, volunteers and staff, we are encouraging all Hawaii Island residents to participate in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s by walking from home in their community,” said LJ Duenas, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association – Hawaii. “While the recent Delta variant surge is impacting the way we walk, it doesn’t change the reason we walk. More than ever, with the dollars raised, the Alzheimer’s Association can continue to provide care and support to families during these difficult times while also advancing critical research toward methods of treatment and prevention.”

“The Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Hawaii Island is Your Walk, whichever way you remember, celebrate and raise awareness for the cause, we are here to support you.  The COVID-19 pandemic continues to shape our social landscape, but it hasn’t dampened our spirits nor drive to make this year’s Walk a success,” said Renae Akau, Event Chair, Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Hawaii Island.  “Our fight has never been more relevant.  For my family and I we will honor my grandmother, Christina Andrews, as we do every year, by showcasing her incredible journey, celebrating her life with us and remembering those who have passed from this unfortunate disease.  I encourage you to make this year’s Walk Your Walk.  A Walk for the ones who matter and the cause that still pushes us forward on our path to a cure.”

To enhance the walk-from-home experience, the updated Walk to End Alzheimer’s mobile app creates an opportunity for the community to connect. On Walk Day, through the app, participants will be able to track their Walk From Home on a route map including an augmented reality start and finish line. Additionally, participants can watch a prerecorded Opening and Promise Garden Ceremony, and access an augmented reality Promise Garden where they can select and personalize a flower representing their connection to the disease and plant it among others.

The mobile app can also be used to track participant’s fundraising progress, deposit check donations, and message team members and donors via text message, email, WhatsApp, and Snapchat.

More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Hawaii alone, there are more than 100,000 people impacted by this disease.  

To register and receive the latest updates on Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit alz.org/walk.