KANNAPOLIS — More than 350 area residents participated in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Rowan-Cabarrus in the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease at Atrium Health Ballpark on Sept. 21. Participants raised more than $70,000 to fund Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs of the Alzheimer’s Association.

“We sincerely thank the many dedicated walk participants, volunteers and sponsors who made the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Rowan and Cabarrus Counties a tremendous success,” said Katherine L. Lambert, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter. “The funds raised will help fuel disease research while also providing critical care and support to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia.”

Edward Jones – Region 244 – Rowan-Cabarrus was the top fundraising team at this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, raising $8,030. The other top fundraising teams include Ryan Blaney Family Foundation ($6,100) and TerraBella Assisted Living of Harrisburg ($2,725).

On walk day, participants honored those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. The colors of the Promise Garden flowers represent people’s connection to Alzheimer’s — their personal reasons to end the disease.

The day also featured fun, all-ages entertainment and family-friendly music. Emcees for the event included Queen City News and Fox Charlotte’s, Alicia Quarles, Host of Positively Charlotte Weekdays at 10 a.m., along with Trevor Wilt, the voice of the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers.

Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease — a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In North Carolina alone, there are more than 210,000 people living with the disease and 373,000 caregivers.

• Rowan County has an Alzheimer’s prevalence rate of 11.2 percent in its age 65 and older population.
• Cabarrus County has an Alzheimer’s prevalence rate of 11.1 percent in its age 65 and older population.

The Association is keeping up the momentum and continuing to raise critical funds and awareness with a goal to raise $75,000 by the end of the year. Walk Day may have passed, but donations are still being accepted through Dec. 31 at act.alz.org/RowanCabarrus.