Memory Walk raising funds to fight Alzheimer’s disease

BANGOR – For the generation that marched on Washington and danced at Woodstock, it’s time to “maintain your brain.” That is the suggestion from the Maine Alzheimer’s Association as it gears up for this year’s Memory Walk, which will take place in Bangor and 14 other Maine communities Saturday, Oct. 2. In Bangor the 3.5-mile walk begins at 9 a.m. at Westgate Manor, 750 Union St. Registration begins at 8 a.m.

The Memory Walk provides financial support for association programs and services. Americans who have participated in the walks over the years have raised $150 million in support of those who have Alzheimer’s disease.

This year the fund-raising goal in Maine is $350,000. Money raised from the walk stays in Maine. About 1,200 people in Maine are expected to take part in the walk, said Eleanor Goldberg, director of the Maine Alzheimer’s Association.

Maine Alzheimer’s Association programs and services include a Helpline with translation services available in 140 languages, 24 hours a day and seven days a week, by calling (800) 660-2871; support groups in more than 50 communities in Maine; care management and consultation services; education programs for families, the public and health professionals; Safe Return, a program designed to return to safety individuals who wander away because of Alzheimer’s disease; advocacy for public policy affecting those with Alzheimer’s; community outreach programs for civic groups, law enforcement, the clergy and the public; and research into the cause, prevention, treatment and cure of Alzheimer’s disease.

Participants in the walk collect pledges that are donated to the Maine Alzheimer’s Association. To learn how to take part in the walk or to form a team, visit www.mainealz.org, or call (800) 660-2871.

To obtain more information about Bangor’s Memory Walk, call Westgate Manor at 942-7336.