Community of Topeka walks to end Alzheimer's

Saturday morning, the community of Topeka took the first step to fight Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.

Juliette Bradley, Director of Communications with the Alzheimer's Association said, "Of the top ten causes of death, it's the only one that doesn't have a prevention cure or a way to slow it down."

The Alzheimer's Association is working to change that, and uses fundraisers like the 'Walk to End Alzheimer's' to do so.

Bradley said, "Our goal is to make sure that people know if they get the diagnosis that it's okay to talk about it, and they can come to us and we'll provide the services that they need."

For over 20 years now, the community has hit the pavement to help make a difference.

"Topeka has always been a really great community for us. They're very committed to what we are doing," Bradley said.

13's very own Chris Fisher was there to lead the charge. While he spoke about the disease, those in the crowd held a Promise Garden Flower.

Bradley said, "Promise Garden Flowers are hope, they are hopeful. They are four different colors, all for a different reason as to why you are walking."

Orange represents those who support the cause. Yellow is for someone who is caring for a person with the disease. Blue is someone with Alzheimer's or Dementia. Finally, purple is for those who have lost a loved one to the disease.

As those in attendance walked the 2 mile path, those colors were a reminder of why it is so important to end Alzheimer's.

Bradley said, "We are all here doing the same thing which is traveling down an Alzheimer's journey, which isn't necessarily something people expect, but we're here to guide them as they go through it."

All funds raised from 'The Walk to End Alzheimer's' goes towards care, support, and research efforts.

To donate to the cause, visit www.act.alz.org