Hundreds of people walked to Chase Palm Park to end Alzheimer’s disease, honoring family and friends

A walk that has meaning for many people, not just today, but every day, to end Alzheimer’s disease, held at Chase Palm Park in Santa Barbara.

“Alzheimer’s disease is something that affects so many families, almost everyone is affected in some way,” said Kurt Ransohoff, president of Sutter Health Greater Central Coast.

Data from the International Conference of the Alzheimer’s Association found last year that an estimated 8,800 people over the age of 65 in Santa Barbara County are living with Alzheimer’s disease. That is approximately 12% of people over 65. And today, more than six million Americans live with it.

When asked if Alzheimer’s disease is preventable, neurologist Justin Abraham said staying active is one of the best things anyone can do.

“There is no definitive cure for Alzheimer’s, there is no definitive way to prevent the Azheimer’s disease that we have. The most important thing you can do to stop Alzheimer’s, what we can do right now , is staying active,” says Justin. Abraham, a neurologist at the Sansum Clinic, which is now part of Sutter Health. “That’s the one thing we know that’s preventative when it comes to slowing progression. The best thing you can do, stay active. Let’s stay active. You follow your diet and listen to your doctor’s recommendations to getting screened. That’s the best thing you can do.”

Funds raised during Santa Barbara County’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s stays for support groups, care counselors and more.

Many showed up to walk and honor their loved ones who have passed away or are currently still battling the disease.

“I honor my husband, Nick Garufis, who passed away 18 years ago from Lewy body dementia and Parkinson’s disease,” said Janet Garufis Montecito Bank & Trust Chairman and CEO and the Sutter Health Bar Board of Directors. “At that time there was no one to help. There were no support groups and Alzheimer’s really filled that gap. I’m very grateful to see that they have that work available and that support is available to people because it was a very lonely journey.”

Alzheimer’s disease causes such devastation to people and their families, but at the event many showed up full of joy and smiles in their purple clothes, ready to walk to end Alzheimer’s.