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Memory Walk needs volunteers

By Codell Rodriguez, The Southern

Thursday, September 4, 2008 9:46 PM CDT

CARTERVILLE - With a goal to raise $45 million nationwide, the Alzheimer's Association is going to need some volunteers.

The Greater Illinois chapter of the organization will have its Memory Walk at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, at John A. Logan College.

Jill Schoenborn, coordinator for outreach and development for the Illinois chapter, said there are already 50 teams registered to take part and the group could use some volunteers to make sure everything goes smoothly. Volunteer duties include manning booths and serving food.

She said she volunteers for the walk because the subject hits close to home for her.

"Alzheimer's disease has touched my family four times," Schoenborn said. "My grandmother and great aunt were both diagnosed at early ages and both passed away from the disease, and recently two of my husband's grandparents passed away from the disease, so I know first hand how important it is to get involved in finding a cure for this disease."

Volunteer Candace Watt of Murphysboro said losing her father to the disease drives her to get involved. She said going through that made it impossible for her not to volunteer.

"Sometimes you have to experience it to know how bad it is," Watt said. "I wouldn't wish it on anyone."

In addition to the walk, there will be music, children's activities and information on the disease. There will also be ceremonies honoring two caregivers and awarding the volunteer of the year.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, and someone develops the disease every 71 seconds. By 2050 it will be every 33 seconds.

Watt said the high numbers of people having the disease she urges everyone to get involved and walk for a cure.

"I feel so deeply about raising money and trying to find a cure," Watt said.

codell.rodriguez@thesouthern.com

351-5804