Naperville Walk To End Alzheimer's to raise awareness and funds for care, support and research

On Sunday, Sept. 19, residents in the Naperville area will join the fight to end Alzheimer's disease at the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's - the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research.

On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer's with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony - a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. The colors of the Promise Garden flowers represent people's connection to Alzheimer's - their personal reasons to end the disease.

While plans to host the Naperville Walk in person have moved ahead, the health and safety of participants, staff and volunteers remained the top priorities as decisions were made about event details. Options are available to participate online and in local neighborhoods. For more information and registration, visit alz.org.walk.

The opening ceremony will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the walk at 10 a.m. at North Central College's Benedetti-Wehil Stadium, 455 S. Brainard St. in Naperville

More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease - a leading cause of death in the United States.

Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer's and other dementias. In Illinois alone, there are more than 230,000 people living with the disease and 381,000 caregivers.