COVID-19 has caused many things to be changed and canceled.

It hasn’t stopped Alzheimer’s.

And it isn’t stopping the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

“The Walk to End Alzheimer’s committee is excited to announce that the annual fundraiser and awareness event will happen this fall and the date is set for Saturday, Sept. 26 at Betts Park,” according to a committee release. “Many parts of our lives look different right now, but one thing hasn’t changed: our community’s commitment to ending Alzheimer’s.”

“We know in these difficult times we must keep fighting for a cure of this disease,” according to the release. “Alzheimer’s is one of the most critical public health issues in America. It is the nation’s most expensive disease and the sixth leading cause of death. It is relentless and so are we. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s.”

COVID-19 is having an impact on the event.

“The health and safety of all the event participants and volunteers are the Alzheimer’s Association’s top priority which means there will not be an in-person gathering in a couple of months,” according to the release. “Instead, this year will feature new and exciting ways for the community to experience several of the time-honored traditions of the event while continuing to rally for the mission. The Walk committee has been meeting virtually for the past few months to discuss logistics and implementing guidelines to protect the public.”

“Warren’s Walk will feature an interactive online platform, through the Walk to End Alzheimer’s app, to livestream the Opening Ceremony that honors the personal reasons people join the fight to end Alzheimer’s and teams will be encouraged to walk in their own neighborhood to increase Alzheimer’s awareness in all corners of the Warren area and surrounding communities,” according to the release.

“Most importantly, on Walk Day a Promise Garden will be planted at Betts Park and be open during designated times as a drive-thru, parade-style experience,” according to the release. “Teams will be encouraged to decorate their vehicles as well. Each color of the ALZ Promise Flowers is symbolic and a beautiful display of flowers and more will be created this year to reaffirm our commitment to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.”

There are currently 18 teams registered and working on fund-raising activities.

Those who wish to participate must pre-register.

“Walk T-shirts and other incentives will still be given as individuals achieve fund-raising milestones and be mailed,” according to the release. “Registrations and donations can be completed through the Walk website at act.alz.org/warren2020 After the event, donations will be accepted until the end of this year.”

Those looking for information about registering a team, sponsorships, donations, and additional details may send email to jbbrownlee@alz.org.