Alzheimer’s Foundation to host annual walk in East Meadow

Community members in Nassau County are invited to lace up their walking shoes and join the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America for it annual Alzheimer’s Walk in the Park on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to noon. in Eisenhower Park. Event organizers promise a morning of community spirit, with New York baseball icon Dwight Gooden participating in the opening ceremonies, signing autographs, and taking photos with walkers.

The walk, held at Field 6 of Eisenhower Park, is a free event open to all, though participants are encouraged to raise funds either individually or as part of a team. Funds raised through the walk will support AFA’s programs and services for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and contribute to research for better treatments and a cure. To get involved, walkers can sign up and start fundraising through the walk website at ALZfdn.org/walk.

Charles Fuschillo, the foundation’s president and chief executive, highlighted the significance of the event, saying, “In the fight against Alzheimer’s, each step counts, which is why we are encouraging everyone to walk with us on Sept. 28.

“The funds and awareness raised will make a tremendous difference for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses in their time of need,” he said. “We are grateful to Dwight Gooden for serving as our honorary Alzheimer’s Ambassador for the event and invite everyone to help us strikeout Alzheimer’s.”

Gooden, a former Cy Young Award winner and World Series champion with the Mets and Yankees, also expressed his enthusiasm for the event.

“When I was invited to be an ambassador for this walk, I immediately said yes because I know about the impact that Alzheimer’s disease has on many families,” he said. “I am excited to help spread awareness and be a part of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s Walk to raise funds to help families impacted by this disease and to fund research for a cure.”

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support, services, and education to individuals, families, and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The foundation funds research for better treatment and a cure and offers services such as a National Toll-Free Helpline, caregiver support groups, educational programs, and more.

Walk participants who fundraise at least $100 will have the opportunity to meet Gooden and receive an autographed baseball. Those raising $250 or more will also enjoy a professional photo opportunity with the baseball legend.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals interested in supporting the cause.

Alzheimer’s disease remains a pressing public health issue, with over 6.9 million Americans currently living with the disease — a number expected to more than double by 2060.

In New York alone, approximately 410,000 residents, including an estimated 60,000 Long Islanders, are affected.

For more information on how to register, fundraise, or sponsor, visit www.alzfdn.org/walk.