Posted on October 06, 2002
Memory Walk raises Alzheimer's awareness

Friends and loved ones gathered Saturday to walk in memory of those who are suffering and who have died from Alzheimer's disease.

Approximately 150 people participated in the Upstate South Carolina Chapter of the National Alzheimer's Association's annual fund-raiser, the Memory Walk. The event was held at the Mountainview Nursing Home in Spartanburg.

"We're here to raise funds and awareness," said Ralph Winn, from the board of directors for the chapter. This year's three-mile walk was Winn's fourth. He participated in honor of his wife, who lost her 12-year battle with the disease this past January.

"There are more than 4,000 cases in Spartanburg County alone and 4 million nationwide," Winn said. "With enough research and awareness we can beat this thing, just like polio was conquered."

Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that affects a person's ability to carry out daily activities. It involves parts of the brain that control thought, memory and language. Every day scientists learn more, but right now the causes of the disease are still unknown, and there is no cure. The disease usually begins after age 60, and the risk goes up with age.

Many of the memory walkers joined the effort in support of a loved one.

"I'm here for my mother," said Karen Harris, a Spartanburg resident. "It's devastating to see the suffering that comes with this disease."

Harris's efforts were supported by fellow teammates from Morningside Baptist Church.

The Upstate chapter set a goal of $40,000 for this year's walk.

"We didn't quite make last year's goal of $50,000," said Janice Finkle, chapter coordinator. "The economy was so upset this time last year. We're hoping this year will be better."

One way these funds help is by letting local families of Alzheimer's victims hire day sitters to assist in the homes.

"All funds raised during the Memory Walk stay local," Finkle said. "By local, I mean within the 17 counties covered by our chapter."

The Spartanburg High Tippers was one of this year's largest fund-raisers, bringing in more than $3,000. These 54 high school students raised money by going door-to-door and speaking with community members about Alzheimer's disease. The Tippers also provided a carnival after the event to entertain children who participated in the walk.

"We've got something for everyone during the day," said Sue Kemp of Mountainview Nursing Home.

The nursing home donated its grounds for the walk. Afterward, it provided walkers with a free barbeque lunch.