News

Actions

Boise Walk to End Alzheimer's event at Kleiner Park

Posted at 7:00 PM, Oct 07, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-07 21:47:46-04

Saturday Idaho walked to remember their loved ones and what they are fighting for.
"The Walk to End Alzheimer's" is working to put an end to the disease and other forms of dementia.

More than 5 million people are fighting Alzheimer's in the United States 23 thousand in Idaho alone. Like many Treasure Valley families -- the 6 On Your Side newsroom has also been heavily impacted by Alzheimer's. 

Our Digital Director J Bates - and News Director Grendel Levy, have both lost loved ones to the disease. They walk to end Alzheimer's, giving them a chance to fight back.  
"It's just a way for me to do something because with that disease you feel so helpless," said J Bates.  

Participants held flower pinwheels to characterize how they have been impacted by the disease that has no cure.  

Orange for supporters, yellow for caregivers,  blue for those fighting the disease and purple for those dealing with the loss of a loved one. One young girl holding a single white pinwheel representing the possibility of the first survivor of Alzheimer's. Sharon Eller lost her husband two years ago to dementia. Watching her husband slip away was heartbreaking.

"when you've been married 50 years and he no longer knows your name it's very very hard," said Sharon.  

Hundreds of walking teams raised more than 200 thousand dollars. Not only to help find a cure, but to fund a 24/7 help-line, support groups, and free education classes.

The money raised will help fund a garden of hope. You can donate to the cause by clicking this link.