Walking for a Cure: The Annual Amarillo Walk to End Alzheimer’s Returns This Month

One of the tough things about doing life in Amarillo is watching helplessly as the circle of life plays out in front of you. While the early stages of watching a family grow bring immense joy, watching loved ones navigate the twilight of their lives can be deeply heartbreaking.

That circle goes on for everyone until they reach the near end. That, of course, happens at different times and with different circumstances. The tough thing is watching your loved one go through the final years.

It's even tougher to handle when they can't remember you. When they can't always remember the joyous times they had in their lives. The reality of Alzheimer's unfortunately affects a lot of families.

Fortunately, communities are fighting back to find a cure for a disease that touches nearly everyone's life in some capacity. There is a good chance you know someone right now dealing with it.

In Texas alone, more than 459,000 people are living with the disease and more than 1.2 million caregivers. That is a lot of lives touched by Alzheimer's, and that is exactly why the 'Walk to End Alzheimer's' happens every year.

This year, the walk will be happening Saturday, August 29, at Sam Houston Park. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each one representing their personal connection to the disease. You will see firsthand how many families are affected.

• Blue: represents someone living with Alzheimer's or another dementia
• Purple: for those who have lost someone to the disease
• Yellow: represents someone who is currently supporting or caring for a person living with Alzheimer's
• Orange: for those who support the cause and the Association's vision of a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia

This impactful community event begins at 9:00 AM at Sam Houston Park (4101 Line Ave.). Families, pets on leashes, and supporters of all ages are welcome to participate. Make sure you bring the kiddos so they can enjoy the kid zone after all the festivities.

If you want to make a difference and help, lace up your shoes and join the Walk to End Alzheimer's.