The people gathered are all different ages, but here for the same reason. Heartfelt sentiments are written on brightly-colored flowers, each symbolic of something different, but with one common emphasis — a vision of a world without Alzheimer's disease.
The annual Walk to End Alzheimer's is Sept. 21 at Century High School. Registration begins at 8 a.m., and the walk will begin at 9:30 a.m.
This is the 17th consecutive year Bismarck has held the walk, and 400 local residents are expected to participate in this year's event.
Community Engagement Manager Tony Richards has high hopes for this year's walk.
"The walk has been very well received," Richards said. "The support we have is strong."
The biggest difference in this year's walk is the change in location. The walk has taken place at the Bismarck Country Club in past years, but has been moved to accommodate more participants.
"We're trying to make it diverse," Alzheimer's Association volunteer Bonnie Dowhaniuk said. "It'll hopefully be more appealing to that age group that comes support us."
The non-competitive walk will feature balloon animals, face painting and the opportunity to participate in the popular "Promise Garden" mission. There will also be various awards presented at the conclusion of the walk.
"This year we have a heck of a committee," Dowhaniuk said.
Those wishing to contribute to the Alzheimer's Association can do so on their national website, www.alz.org. Merchandise is available to those who meet the criteria for basic fundraising amount requirements.
The amount raised through fundraising primarily will be used for research on the disease.
Dowhaniuk first got involved with the organization about three years ago, shortly after her own mother, Pauline, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Medication is available to help slow the progression of Alzheimer's, but only to those in its early stages. Unfortunately, her mother's illness was past the point of medication, and she passed away at the age of 70. It is one of the main reasons Dowhaniuk is so passionate about the organization; she hopes to educate those unaware of the warning signs.
"Recognizing early symptoms is crucial to treating the disease," Dowhaniuk said.
By volunteering for the Alzheimer's Association, Dowhaniuk is able to support and be supported by some of the many who have a similar story to hers.
"I think I'm even more passionate," Dowhaniuk said. "You just really feel a bonding."
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