Columbia Community Comes Together for Annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Raising Over $165,000

Columbia’s Hearts Unite for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

This past Saturday morning was a special one in Columbia, South Carolina. A vibrant wave of purple washed over the Bull Street District as the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s returned to the spirited Segra Park. The event, which drew in over 800 caring individuals, was a heartwarming sight, proving how wide-reaching Alzheimer’s disease truly is—affecting families, friends, and even esteemed elected officials.

Personal Stories of Resilience

Among the many participants was State Senator Katrina Shealy, who shared her personal connection to the cause. “My husband has had Alzheimer’s for 10 years now, so I’m personally affected by being a caregiver,” she explained with heartfelt sincerity. Senator Shealy emphasized the significance of early diagnosis, stating that “there’s some treatment” available if the disease is caught in its early stages. Her words resonated with many, reminding everyone present just how crucial it is to support research and awareness efforts.

A Tradition of Support

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s has been a cherished event in the Midlands for nearly thirty years. This year marked the fifth time the community gathered at Segra Park for this significant cause. The sense of camaraderie and dedication filled the air as teams made their way around the ballpark, raising over $165,000 to support the hundreds of thousands in South Carolina living with Alzheimer’s disease today.

Ashton Houghton, the Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association South Carolina Chapter, remarked on the day’s great teamwork. “Just a great team effort here today; providing that care and support to those living with the disease now,” she said, highlighting the need for ongoing funding for research towards finding a cure.

Family Involvement for a Greater Cause

Brad Wolfe, a local Columbia resident, participated with special meaning as he walked alongside his two young sons, Brayden and Jack. The family was walking to honor Brad’s grandmother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s four years ago, and to remember his grandfather, who had passed away from the disease about a decade ago. Wolfe feels it is essential for his sons to be involved and aware of the disease’s impact on their family.

“We raised some money for it, and I wanted to show them where their money was going, get a chance to walk and meet other people,” Wolfe shared enthusiastically. He continued, “It’s important for them to hear more about the disease and learn about its effects on families.” With such dedication, he expressed his plan to return with his family for the walk again next year in 2025.

Making a Difference Together

The atmosphere at Segra Park was one of hope and positivity, where individuals from various backgrounds came together with a common goal. It served as a powerful reminder that by standing together, raising awareness, and supporting research, everyone can contribute to the fight against Alzheimer’s. More people are learning how to support the Alzheimer’s Association, a crucial step in shaping a future where fewer families are affected by this heartbreaking disease.

For those who missed the event yet still want to make a difference, there are plenty of ways to get involved and assist the Alzheimer’s Association in their mission. By visiting their website, you can gain more insight into how to contribute to this vital cause.

In the end, Columbia showcased that together, we can pool our resources, influences, and hearts to pave a path toward hope and healing for all those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.