Teams are forming now for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s event from 9-11 a.m. on Oct. 1 in Jack Kilby Square.

Walk Manager Malissia “Missy” Zimmer with the Central & Western Kansas Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association said funds raised through donations will help families who are fighting Alzheimer’s and dementia.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s affects us at home and at work:

• Six in 10 caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia were employed in the past year while providing care.

• These individuals worked an average 35 hours per week while caregiving.

• 57% had to go in late, leave early or take time off.

• 59% of family caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s or other dementia rate the emotional stress of caregiving as high or very high.

• 35% of caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia report that their health has worsened due to care responsibilities.

“It doesn’t cost anything to sign up a team,” Zimmer said. However, team members who raise at least $100 will receive a T-shirt and participants who raise more can earn incentive gifts.

A team can consist of any number of people – or just one person.

Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

Local sponsors for the Great Bend event are the Pilot Club of Great Bend and The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend campus. During last Wednesday’s team sign-up at Great Bend Coffee, Great Bend Coffee donated a portion of its proceeds toward the Walk.

Register or donate online at act.alz.org/greatbend. For more information call 800-272-3900 or email Zimmer at mpzimmer@alz.org.