This local organization just raised $322K for Alzheimer’s—here’s how you can get involved

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The 2023 Walk to End Alzheimer’s took place on Sunday, October 22 at Sloss Furnaces. From an incredible turnout to locals raising $322K to advance critical care, support and research for Alzheimer’s and those affected by it, here’s a look at what made the event a success.

Why one Birmingham native walked to end Alzheimer’s

Phyllis Rush, a Birmingham local, is all too familiar with the devastation Alzheimer’s disease leaves in its wake; many of her immediate family members have suffered from it and other forms of dementia. 

“My father, Dr. Jimmy D. Neill, passed away from Alzheimer’s in 2021. He was a brilliant and world-renowned scientist for his entire career; watching him devolve into Alzheimer’s was the cruelest thing I’ve witnessed.” — Phyllis Rush, fundraiser/participant, Walk to End Alzheimer’s

This life-altering event led her to take part in her first Walk to End Alzheimer’s in 2022, hosted by the Alzheimer’s Association: Alabama Chapter. 

Since the close of last year’s event, Phyllis began fundraising for the 2023 Walk to End Alzheimer’s held on October 22 in Birmingham. Starting off with a personal fundraising goal of $3,000, Phyllis crushed it.  

With a total of $7,075 raised, Phyllis was among the top five individual fundraisers in Birmingham and given the title of Elite Grand Champion.

“Participating in fundraising for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a meaningful way to take action against the indignities of Alzheimer’s while honoring loved ones in a profound way. The response to my fundraising campaign from family, friends and co-workers was absolutely overwhelming.”

Phyllis Rush, fundraiser/participant, Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Show your support—donate to the Alzheimer’s Association: Alabama Chapter today.

What to know about the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Birmingham

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Every dollar raised benefits the Alzheimer’s Association’s mission to help advance critical care, support and research for Alzheimer’s and those affected by it.

During this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Phyllis didn’t just walk for her father (or grandmother, aunt and uncle); she walked for her 81-year-old mother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in September this year.

“The Walk to End Alzheimer’s can be deeply somber at times, but the overall energy of the event is strong hope for the future of advanced treatment methods and eventually a cure. There were many joyous moments to celebrate the life and achievements of loved ones with Alzheimer’s.”

Phyllis Rush, fundraiser/participant, Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Why locals joined the Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Sloss Furnaces + how to get involved

Along with helping raise awareness and funds, here are a few things that took place during the annual event that helped bring hundreds of supporters together:

• The walk took place at the beautiful and historic Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham.
• All participants received a Promise Garden flower. Flowers came in four different colors so everyone could pick the one that best represented their personal connection to Alzheimer’s. 
• Participants who raised at least $100 receive an official Walk to End Alzheimer’s T-shirt.
• Participants who raised $500+ qualified for the Champions Club Incentive Program, which included access to a special lounge area with food and drinks during the Walk.

This year’s event raised $322K for research and local support programs. Fundraising lasts through December 31, so there is still to help the Alzheimer’s Association: Alabama Chapter reach its goal of $370K. Donate now .

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s may have ended, but you can still show your support. Learn about volunteer opportunities and donate to the Alzheimer’s Association: Alabama Chapter today. 

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