Alzheimer walk raises more than $170,000

Local organizers said the Rhinelander community came together in “a wave of purple pride and determination” for this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Fueled by the energy and generosity of nearly 400 walkers, the event is expected to raise more than $170,000. These funds will directly support families across the Rhinelander area with education, care and support services, advocacy efforts, and the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900).

“This year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Rhinelander was nothing short of extraordinary. To see thousands of people come together, each with their own story and their own reason to walk, was incredibly moving, said Dave Grams, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association Wisconsin Chapter. “The joy, the energy, and the determination of this community give us strength and
bring us closer to the day when we end Alzheimer’s for good. I am so grateful to every walker, volunteer, and supporter who made this celebration of hope and progress possible.”

More than 7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, one of the nation’s leading causes of death. Over 11 million family members and friends provide unpaid care for those affected. In Wisconsin, more than 110,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s, and tens of thousands of caregivers are supporting them every day.

In Oneida County alone, over 1,315 residents age 65 and older are living with dementia.

The Alzheimer’s Association encourages continued support, as donations can still be made to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s through Dec. 31 at act.alz.org/rhinelander. Mail-in donations should be directed to the regional mail-processing hub at: Alzheimer’s Association, Attn: WTEA Rhinelander, PO Box 1472, Rhinelander, WI 54501.