Memory Walk

Dear Editor,

Again this year McCook will host a Memory Walk to benefit the Alzheimer's Association, Great Plains Area Chapter. Our Memory Walk will be from 2-4 p.m. Sept. 7, at Norris Park.

In 2002 the Great Plains Area Chapter raised nearly $138,000 from Memory Walks over our 80 county area. Needs are rising at a rapid rate, thus our goal for 2003 is $150,000. Eighty-five percent of the money raised will remain in our chapter area, 15 percent will go to research. We provide respite financial assistance to caregivers as well as lending libraries with educational materials, a monthly newsletter, the Safe Return Program, autopsy financial assistance and support groups. We provide in-service training for long-term care facilities and for police and firemen. These are some of the many programs and services provided with the funds generated by our Memory Walks. We do not receive funding from the state or federal government.

Today, more than 4 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease and this number is expected to grow to more than 14 million by the middle of this century. For most of them, the process that will destroy their memories, their lives and their savings has already begun. The annual cost of Alzheimer's disease will soar to at least $375 billion, overwhelming our health care systems and bankrupting Medicare and Medicaid.

Put your best foot forward in the fight against Alzheimer's disease and its devastation ... walk in the walk, support another walker, or organize a team to remember those who can't remember.

For more information or if you would like to help or donate to McCook's Memory Walk, call organizer Marjorie Grimm at (308) 345-5041 or the chapter office at (800) 487-2585. Please know your generosity is greatly appreciated. Thank you,

Marjorie Grimm

McCook