A community dressed in purple strolled around Founders Park in Islamorada, raising awareness and funds during the second Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Dec. 14. Some walkers held a pinwheel to remember loved ones lost to the disease, while others held pinwheels in support of family members currently living with Alzheimer’s. Lissette Romero, the Florida Mortgage Lab owner, helped sponsor the second annual event. She said the walk not only supports groundbreaking research, but also enhances care and support for families navigating their way through the journey. Kara Biery, chair of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, said the walk remembers those who passed from the disease and supports those living with the disease. The walk also acknowledges caregivers aiding those living with dementia.
“We walk for more time for people like my dad that I’m hoping will have more time,” she said. “And ultimately, we’re walking for a cure. Remember, we’re getting closer and closer to a cure. We’re not there yet. We’re a small, tiny island but we can do big things together,” Biery said.
Monroe County has an estimated 1,900 people or 10.6 percent of residents over the age of 65 living with Alzheimer’s. In Florida, more than 580,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s and 840,000 serve as unpaid family caregivers.
“We’re proud of what the Keys community did today,” said Alex Lewy, a senior development manager at the Alzheimer’s Association Southeast Florida Chapter. “We have so many people impacted by Alzheimer’s, it’s inspiring to see what we can do together to help end this disease and find new treatments.”
A total of $37,399 was raised — surpassing last year’s $33,000. Proceeds will go toward the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association in the community. The event was locally sponsored by The Florida Mortgage Lab and Miami’s Best Blinds. Edward Jones was the national presenting sponsor.
Photos by JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
