Saturday's 'Memory Walk' has something for everyone

TOM CRABTREE Saturday's Memory Walk that will help fund efforts to find a cure for Alzheimer's Disease has taken on a festive feel this year, with a number of events for all ages to enjoy.

"We wanted to get everyone involved with the event," said Jonna Turner of the Memory Walk organizing committee. "Everyone is affected in some way or another by the disease and we are trying to get as many people as possible to support the cause."

The event, which is the premier fundraiser for the Alzheimer's Association, is held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide. During the organizing phase of the walk, members of the committee looked for different ways to attract people to the event.

An appearance by WSPATV's Tom Crabtree was a shot in the arm for the event.

"We were very fortunate to get him to participate in the Memory Walk," Turner said. "His presence will definitely be a welcome sight to all in attendance."

"Alzheimer's disease has been more and more in the news during the past two decades," Crabtree said. "All of us have great hope for major medical discoveries that will ease the impact of the disease. Fundraisers and awareness campaigns sponsored by local chapters of the Alzheimer's Association help those discoveries happen sooner, making me more than honored to join the people of Cherokee County for the Memory Walk."

In recent weeks commitments from groups such as the Limestone College cheerleaders and the Christian youth praise band "The Holidays" have been secured.

"The cheerleaders will be there to pump up the crowd and get them ready for the walk while those in attendance will be able to enjoy the sounds of 'The Holidays' as they enjoy their afternoon," Turner said. "We are very excited about this and can't wait."

Lunch will be provided for walk participants.

Turner said the show will go on, rain or shine.

"This is it, we will not get another chance to do this this year," Turner said. "We just hope everyone will come out and support a good cause."

Registration for the Memory Walk begins at 10 a.m. with the actual walk starting at 11 a.m. If you would like more information about the walk or help raise awareness about Alzheimer's Disease, call Turner at (864) 902-8932 or (864) 809-5164.