SpiriTrust Lutheran® The Village at Gettysburg will host its ninth annual Longest Day Walk tomorrow from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. The event will take place on the campus’s three-quarter-mile Hope Trail, with the goal of maintaining a continuous walk throughout the 12-hour period to symbolize the unending care needed by those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
Open to residents, family members, staff, and community friends, the event invites participants to walk any portion of the trail at any time during the day. Organizers hope to have at least one person on the trail at all times as a tribute to individuals living with Alzheimer’s and the caregivers who support them.
Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent form of dementia, deeply impacts not only those diagnosed but also their loved ones and caregivers. The Longest Day Walk aligns with the national Alzheimer’s Association initiative to raise awareness and support on the summer solstice—the longest day of the year.
Registration will be available on the day of the event at a table located under the large tree in front of the main building. While donations are not required to participate, contributions are welcomed and can be made at the registration table or through the receptionist in the main building. Checks should be made payable to the Alzheimer’s Association. Those wishing to donate online can contact Jess Sheahan, director of life enrichment, at 717-334-6204, ext. 40307.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own water bottles. Organizers look forward to bringing the community together to honor and support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease.