Hwang Supports Walk2End Alzheimer’s in Norwalk

Hwang Supports Walk2End Alzheimer’s in Norwalk

NORWALK – State Senator Tony Hwang, Vice-Chair of the Aging Committee and passionate advocate for seniors and their loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s, joined the Alzheimer’s Association (ALZ) annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s on September 16th at Calf Pasture Beach, Norwalk. Together, over 1,300 people on 210 teams raised over $300,000 dollars to fight Alzheimer’s and find a cure.

15-year-old Max Rosenberg of Fairfield, a prolific fundraiser who works hard in honor of his grandmother, raised almost $30,000 on his own, the highest individual fundraiser in the State! Max participates regularly in the legislative process both in Hartford and Washington, D.C. on behalf of the ALZ, and is greatly admired by his elected representatives like Senator Tony Hwang.

“When fighting such an insidious and pernicious disease, the most important thing we can do is stay involved, and never stop. We need to be more ferocious and even more determined than the disease,” remarked Senator Hwang. “Max Rosenberg and the Alzheimer’s Association understand that, and they do a fantastic job keeping us all informed and keeping us all motivated to find a cure for Alzheimer’s.”

Max added, “I think this year’s walk is special to me because each year I see my own grandmother succumb further to this disease, and it makes me even more determined to help end Alzheimer’s, and it’s encouraging that each year we gain momentum with more funding and more people getting involved.”

When asked about the significance of the day Tori Vigorito, ALZ Walk Manager for Norwalk & Fairfield County, said, “Walkers from all over Fairfield country joined together to celebrate, honor and remember their loved ones. We all have one goal, and that is to end Alzheimer’s disease. It truly is a beautiful event and I thank those who continue to fight and support this cause.”

“The power of coming together and raising awareness was like no other in Norwalk yesterday! We need to unite and share our stories, and support those families and individuals living with the disease. It is more than just raising dollars for research and care and support. It’s igniting a community!” said Eleonora Tornatore-Mikesh, Executive Director of the ALZ Connecticut Chapter.

Planted on Calf Pasture Beach were hundreds of flower-shaped pinwheels in Purple, Yellow, Orange and Blue, each representing someone affected by Alzheimer’s. Before kicking off the walk the MCs, Ryan Kristafer of WTNH Channel 8’s CT Style and Alexa Farrell of News12, shared stories of these individuals. Purple flowers represented loved ones lost to the disease. Yellow represented caregivers, often family members who have provided an estimated 18.4 Billion hours of care. Orange signifies everyone who supports the cause and vision of a world without Alzheimer’s. Blue flowers represent those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. And lastly, a single white flower that signifies the first person that will be cured of Alzheimer’s.

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or want to join the fight to end this disease, you can donate by going online to:https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2?df_id=32112&32112.donation=form1