"The Southern

Crescent Memory Walk was created in 1999 in response to the vision of

Floy Farr and carried forward by Fred Brown and Iola Snow," said

Gaillard, marketing director of Ashley Glen Assisted Living. "Our

first walk was in 2000. From the start, organizers encouraged all the

Southern Crescent counties to become involved. The walk now has chairs

in Fayette, Coweta, Clayton and Spalding counties and promises to remain

a premier event on the Southside each fall."

In 2002, the

walk raised more than $148,000. Organizers emphasize that its success

is a direct result of all the dedicated volunteers and their efforts.

"From

the earliest stages of the planning phase to the present, they have unhesitatinly

and generously given of their time and means," said Gaillard.

Memory Walks

are important because they afford the Alzheimer's Association the opportunity

to provide and enhance quality of care given to individuals and families

suffering from Alzheimer's diesase and to raise awareness as well as money.

Seventy-eight percent of all money raised goes directly to the support

of these programs.

Among services

provided are local and toll-free 24-hour helplines; distribution of informational

materials; individual counseling; respite and caregiver time-out; support

groups; the Safe Return program (ID bracelets); health fairs; community

presentations; and professional caregiver training and education. Nationally,

81 chapters raised more than $20.5 million in the 2002 Memory Walks.

"It is

not too early to mark your calendar for the 2003 Southern Crescent Memory

Walk," said Gaillard. "Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Frederick Brown

Jr. Amphitheater is when and where to be. Come join over 1,000 runners,

walkers and volunteers, enjoy the food, the band, the prizes and, most

of all, offer hope and help to the families in our community who need

our support."

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