Hi my name is Belinda Castro and I have been caring full time for my mother Carmen Castro since suffering a stroke in May 2017 and later being diagnosed with stroke related dementia that is a constant concern. She will be turning 85 this year and in memory of her mother, my grandmother Julia who passed away when I was very little from Alzheimer's we are leading the way to Alzheimer's first survivor by participating in the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's(R). We raised $585 in donations last year, exceeding our goal of $500, so this year we have set a goal of $600 and with your support I know we can get to that goal this year.

Currently, more than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's and that number is expected to grow to as many as 16 million by 2050. Our future is at risk unless we can find a way to change the course of this disease.

I will be participating again this year with my mom Carmen, who I will be pushing in a wheelchair in order to allow her to participate in honor of her mother Julia and her own ongoing fight. Merlin my ever faithful service dog passed away in 2021 and will be missed, but I'm hoping that Tessa my new prospect service dog in training will be attending the event with us this year and caring on in memory of Merlin. We are also happy to announce that Susan Rumson Tessa’s first fur mom has joined our Team and will be walking with us as well.

With your help we can end Alzheimer's disease, so lets continue giving until the end. Your donation will advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association. NEVER FORGET!

Thank you for joining the fight against Alzheimer's!