Story by Laurel-Lye Severin ’24

On November 4, 2023, Point Pleasant Beach hosted its annual event, The Walk to Fight Alzheimer’s. Here, residents from all over New Jersey gather together to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s support, research, and care for those affected by the disease. 

Hundreds of people wearing purple, the color representing Alzheimer’s awareness, made up the event. Student organizations including Peer Leadership, Key Club, and National Honors Society from both Brick Township and Point Pleasant were included amongst the crowd to share their support.   Myriad stands and upbeat music met guests as they entered the outdoor venue, ready to commemorate those affected by the disease. Following this, a segment began where guest speakers, such as Emma, stood before the audience where they shared the stories of loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s. Then occurred the “Butterfly Ceremony,” where everybody held up paper butterflies, which represented the change and adaption that victims and their families underwent due to Alzheimer’s. 

Brick Memorial High School, led by Ms. Tarnowski, walked on behalf of Sgt. James Tierney, a long-time Mustang, who passed away from Alzheimer’s.  “Sarge’s Squad” raised well over $1000 for this terrific cause.

The two-and-a-half mile walk began around ten thirty that morning. Along this walk, guests would be met with bagpipe players who would be playing music to boost morale and commemorate those who have been lost in addition to people currently fighting the disease. 

Ultimately, The Walk to Fight Alzheimer’s was successful and had a positive turnout for everybody involved.