Hundreds gathered on Dec. 6 for a Walk to End Alzheimer鈥檚 event in Lakeland, Florida, including Nik Lampe, PhD, an assistant professor in the Department of Behavioral Health Science and Practice. During the event, Lampe was formally recognized as an Alzheimer鈥檚 Association-funded researcher.
More than 7 million Americans are currently estimated to be living with Alzheimer鈥檚, a progressive brain disease that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Florida has the second-highest number of residents living with the disease, making local support and fundraising efforts vital.
"This event brings together anyone impacted by this terrible disease in our community and helps them to know they are not alone," said Natalie Aviles, development manager for Walk to End Alzheimer鈥檚 Polk County. "By participating in the Walk, we鈥檙e not only funding critical research and treatments, but also bringing families together to support each other."
The Alzheimer鈥檚 Association Walk to End Alzheimer鈥檚 is the world鈥檚 largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer鈥檚 care, support and research.