For their memories

The Walk to End Alzheimer's is Saturday morning in Riverstone Park, 1805 Tilford Lane, Coeur d'Alene.

The walk is an annual event to raise funds to support the research and efforts of the Alzheimer's Association, a nonprofit that works to accelerate global research, drive risk reduction and early detection and maximize quality care and support. Registration is at 9 a.m.

It's also an opportunity to honor those affected by Alzheimer's with the Promise Garden ceremony, a poignant tradition that brings attendees together in their fight against Alzheimer's and dementia. The Promise Garden ceremony is at 10 a.m. Each registered participant will receive a Promise Garden flower:

• Blue represents someone living with Alzheimer's or another dementia

• Purple is for those who have lost someone to the disease

• Yellow represents someone who is currently supporting or caring for a person living with Alzheimer's

• Orange is for those who support the cause and the vision of a world without Alzheimer's

"I walk for a world free of Alzheimer's," Walk to End Alzheimer's Coeur d'Alene manager Jordan Hunter said Tuesday. "I have a 15-month-old daughter and am pregnant with my second, and I want them to live in a world where they never have to worry about their mom not knowing them."

In 2020, the walk was held virtually because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2021 event was a hybrid of in-person and at-home participants.

"We are excited for the 2022 event to have a large in-person presence to create a stronger community and support for those impacted by Alzheimer's and dementia," Hunter said.

For those who haven't yet decided if they'll join the walk, Hunter said the Alzheimer's community needs them to join the fight.

"With every voice we get louder and we get stronger," she said. "The more awareness and funds we can raise, the closer we can come to a world where Alzheimer's and dementia are a thing of the past."

The 3-mile walk will take place at 10:30 a.m. along the Spokane River to Orchard Ridge Senior Living and back.

The Coeur d'Alene walk as of Tuesday had 138 participants and 32 teams registered. The $60,000 fundraising goal was 44% fulfilled, with more than $26,400 raised.

The event is free to participate, however fundraising is highly encouraged.

Visit act.alz.org to register.