Waltonwood Cary Parkway, a premier senior living community, is inviting the public to participate in its Longest Day fundraiser on Friday, June 21to raise funds and awareness for the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. The event encourages thousands of people worldwide to host an activity they are passionate about or the favorite activity of a loved one, and the senior living community picked walking. From 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., the senior living community will host a walkathon for people of all ages and abilities. Waltonwood Cary Parkway Executive Director Matthew VanAuker and other associates at the community will participate the entire time. The community will have food, games and giveaways for all who attend. While the walkathon at Waltonwood Cary Parkway (750 SE Cary Parkway) is free and open to the public, any donations are highly appreciated and go directly to the Alzheimer’s Association.
“We are excited to host this public event to support those affected by Alzheimer’s disease, whether they are living with it or care for someone who does,” said VanAuker. “I want to walk all day to show that together, the strength of our light will outshine the darkness of Alzheimer’s. Many of the residents and associates have a loved one or friend affected by this disease, and we want them to know we stand with them in this fight. We are participating in The Longest Day as a team to recognize the dedication, compassion and, most importantly, the love that caregivers share with those who suffer from dementia. We hope everyone will bring their walking shoes and help us take the right step in finding a cure for Alzheimer’s.”
The fundraiser is held annually on the summer solstice (the longest day of the year) because the duration of this sunrise-to-sunset event symbolizes the challenging journey of those living with Alzheimer’s disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the disease is a global epidemic. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, with more than five million people living with the disease and 47 million people worldwide suffering from dementia. Waltonwood Cary Parkway has a memory care neighborhood and understands firsthand the importance of providing specialized care and recognizing the hard work and dedication of their caregivers.
“We have an amazing group of people who give 110 percent each day as they engage our memory care residents” said Allison Whitaker, memory care life enrichment manager. “We want them to know how much we appreciate their commitment and that it doesn’t go unnoticed. This will be a meaningful event for so many at the community. Raising money and awareness will not only help fund research, it also encourages others to keep their bodies and minds healthy. We hope the public stops by, enjoys the food and games and learns more ways they can support the Alzheimer’s Association. Together, we can show those fighting this disease that they are not alone.”
If you are interested in donating or attending, please call 919-460-7330.