Chesterfield, MO (KMOX) - Hundreds of people joined together Saturday morning to plant a flower garden of hope for an end to Alzheimer's disease and dementia. 376 teams participated in this year's St. Louis Walk to End Alzheimer's, organized by the Alzheimer's Association and the Alzheimer's Association Greater Missouri Chapter.
The St. Louis event is one of the top ten Walks in the country. Last year participants raised more than a million dollars for support, research and awareness. This year, KMOX and Audacy St. Louis joined in the effort.
Before lining up for the walk at Chesterfield Amphitheater, participants were given a flower. Each color represents their connection to the disease:
Blue for someone living with Alzheimer's/dementia
Yellow for caregivers
Purple for someone who has lost a loved one or friend to the disease
Orange for someone supporting the effort to end Alzheimer's
During opening ceremonies, a participant also raised a white flower, representing the hope that someday there will be a cure.
The Alzheimer's Association provides local support and programs to families living with Alzheimer's or any type of dementia. For more information, call the 24 hour hotline at 800-272-3900 or go to https://www.alz.org/greatermissouri