Chesterfield walk raises $1.3 million for Alzheimer's research

The Alzheimer's Association raised more than $1.3 million on Saturday after thousands of people participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer's at the Chesterfield Amphitheater. The funds will support care, services, and research aimed at finding a cure for the disease.

According to the Alzheimer's Association, nearly 3,000 individuals and 387 teams registered for the event. The gathering served as a major fundraising effort for the national organization, which provides resources for families affected by dementia.

Volunteers played a central role in the event, many of whom participated to honor loved ones who passed away from the condition. Amy Wheeler, a volunteer, lost her uncle, Warren Powers, to Alzheimer's in 2021. She joined the association to continue his legacy and help others facing similar challenges.

The opening ceremony featured four distinct flower colors, each representing a different relationship to the disease. Yellow flowers represented caregivers, while purple symbolized those who have lost someone. Blue flowers were for individuals living with Alzheimer's, and orange flowers represented supporters.

Wheeler noted that the group hopes one day all participants will carry white flowers, a symbol that a cure has been found. The Alzheimer's Association also maintains a free 24-hour helpline at 1-800-272-3900 for people seeking information or support regarding Alzheimer's or dementia.