NEWBERRY— the Alzheimer’s Association will hold its 10th annual “A Ride to Remember,” a cross-state cycling event benefiting the South Carolina Chapter. The 350 cyclists will undertake a 250+ mile journey from Simpsonville to Mt. Pleasant over the course of three days, with stops in Newberry and Orangeburg along the way.
The destination in Newberry will be Newberry College, the cyclist will arrive via Belfast Road, coming through to O’Neal Street, they will turn right onto Tarrant Street, then go onto Main Street, then Nance Street, they will then turn right onto Pope Street, turn right onto College Street, which will then take them to the college.
The event has already raised over $450,000, 60 percent of their $750,000 goal, to provide Alzheimer’s support services, education and research programs through the Alzheimer’s Association. The community may donate to support the cause at www.aridetoremember.org.
“We are so grateful for the riders in this event and for the volunteers who continue to show their support and make this event possible,” said Ashton Houghton, vice president of Development for the Alzheimer’s Association South Carolina Chapter. “This year we’re excited to be celebrating 10 years of the best-supported cross-state ride. The funds raised will provide local support services in South Carolina, as well as support Alzheimer’s research efforts at the national level through the Alzheimer’s Association.”
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, degenerative neurological disorder that currently impacts 89,000 people in South Carolina. South Carolina holds the title as the state with the highest Alzheimer’s mortality rate in the nation. More than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, which is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States and the only cause of death among the top 10 that cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed. Additionally, less than half (45 percent) of seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or their caregivers are aware of the diagnosis. Diagnosis is often delayed due to low public awareness of the early signs of Alzheimer’s and general misperceptions about Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
The Alzheimer’s Association South Carolina Chapter provides a 24-Hour Helpline (800-272-3900), information and referral, support groups, caregiver respite vouchers, care consultation, education programs and safety services to families affected by the disease.
A portion of all funds raised will support national research efforts to determine the cause of and potential treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.
