DIXON (WIFR) -- The Alzheimer’s Association - Central Illinois Chapter, is inviting Dixon area residents to become Champions in the fight against Alzheimer’s by participating in the Rock River Memory Walk to be held Saturday, Sept. 25th at Lowell Park, Dixon, at 9:00 a.m.

Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic that is now the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. It is estimated that someone in America develops Alzheimer’s disease every 70 seconds. By mid-century someone will develop Alzheimer’s disease every 33 seconds.

“There has never been a greater need for the citizens of the Rock River area to join in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease by participating in Memory Walk,” said Rock River Branch Manager Nancy Sweitzer. “As many as 5.3 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease and funds raised will provide support services to the 20,500 residents of Northern and Central Illinois living with Alzheimer’s while also contributing to critically needed research.”

The Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk is an empowering event that gives participants an opportunity to be Champions by taking action and raising funds to fight Alzheimer’s. In addition to the 3 mile walk, prizes will be awarded to individuals and teams who raise the most funds for the event.

Major Sponsors include: CGH Medical Center, KSB Hospital, WIXN AM 1460 Radio, and River Country 101.7 Radio.

Sept. 25th Schedule:
7:30 a.m. Registration
8:00 a.m. Team Photos
8:15 a.m. Program Begins
9:00 a.m. Walk Begins
10:00 a.m. Prizes Awarded

To support a team, join a team or register as an individual participant, visit the Central Illinois Chapter website at www.alz.org/illinoiscentral, call the Rock River office at 285.1100, or stop by the office location at 93 S. Hennepin Avenue, Dixon. All participants who raise $25 will receive a 2010 Memory Walk t-shirt.

In 2009 over 200 walkers raised over $40,000 through individual and team fund raising. Top walkers included Karen Cook, Walter Fellows, and Harold Buckhalter. Top teams included Team Louie, Dixon Healthcare, and Charlie’s Angels.

This year’s goal is $45,000.

The Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research programs. Held annually in hundreds of communities across the county, this inspiring event calls volunteers of all ages to become Champions in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

The Alzheimer’s Association – Central Illinois Chapter, is a donor supported, not-for-profit health organization serving 20 counties in central, northern and west central Illinois. Its three office locations – Dixon, Peoria, and Quincy – are committed to providing educational and supportive services to help people with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers understand and deal with the disease and its impact on their lives.