Local man describes help he received and why he plans to be at Saturday’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s

People will be walking for an end to Alzheimer's this weekend at Palm Desert's Civic Center Park.

As News Channel 3's Jeff Stahl reports-- proceeds from the annual Walk to End Alzheimer's event help support those living with the disease and their caregivers-- while also paying for research to end the brain disorder. 

Dr. Les Adelson says the Alzheimer's Association offered vital support and resources when his husband Tom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease -- a type of dementia.

Adelson said, "They offered us knowledge and understanding through their community education, through their caregiver training, through workshops and recreational activities." 

Adelson wrote a book about Tom, who died this past year, and says the support groups and Alzheimer's 24-7 line were lifesavers for him.

"It's more than a helpline. I call it the lifeline, and it was there for me so many times when I had issues I was dealing with," Adelson said. 

"We will find a cure for Alzheimer's," said Walk to End Alzheimer's Event Chair Stacie Hedges adding, "And these kinds of events are fundraising because we will find a cure." 

Hedges says Saturday will be fun and filled with a lot of joy, happiness, and a promise of a brighter future.

"I keep telling people, 'Bring your neighbors. Bring your dog. Bring your friends. Bring your children,'" Hedges said. 

Walk proceeds help with research to end the disease, and programs and services offered locally in Palm Desert. 

This year's goal is $175,000.

"I highly encourage anybody who's going through Alzheimer's, especially the caregivers, that's who really needs the support and the resources to tap into those resources locally," said Hedges. 

The walk ends with a Promise Garden ceremony and a white flower that represents a world without Alzheimer's. 

There are going to be business booths and informational booths, as well, on Saturday at Palm Desert Civic Center Park, where you can find out more about Alzheimer's and the many services offered by the Alzheimer's Association. The festivities start at eight o'clock with the walk itself starting at 9:30. 

You can sign up for Saturday's walk-- or donate HERE.

And share online using the hashtags #Walk2EndAlz and #ENDALZ