NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – The annual Alzheimer’s Walk will take place on Long Island on Saturday and is set to raise awareness and funds for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
Hosted by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), the walk, taking place at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, aims to support individuals, caregivers, and families facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s and related dementias, while also funding vital research toward a cure. The walk will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Baseball legend Dwight “Doc” Gooden volunteered to be a special guest at the event, where he will be engaging with walkers, signing autographs, and taking photos.
“The impact that this disease has on families…everyone is affected by this,” Gooden said during an interview with Audacy Mets Radio. “So, I’ll be at the park, signing autographs, walking as well, talking baseball…it’ll be a good day for a good cause.”
Participants who raise at least $100 will have the opportunity to meet Gooden and receive an autographed baseball, while those raising $250 or more will also enjoy a professional photo opportunity with the 1985 National League Cy Young Award winner and two-time World Series champion.
For Gooden, the fight against Alzheimer’s hits close to home, having lost a close friend to dementia. He also talked about his own battles with addiction. “Buddy raised the guard July gave me five years clean and sober,” he said. “I couldn’t have done that without the support and help of others being there for me… I’m just trying to play a small part in helping these families get through this.”
With over 6.9 million Americans currently affected, Alzheimer’s disease is a growing concern, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In New York state, approximately 410,000 individuals, including 60,000 Long Islanders, are living with the disease, according to the CDC.
“It’s always good to unite with the fans, share stories, reminisce a little bit…and first and foremost, be there for this cause,” Gooden said.
To register for the walk or to donate, visit www.alzfdn.org/walk.