2009 Alzheimer's Walk held in Westfield

Stephen Hume was diagnosed with Alzheimer's two years ago. "I knew something was wrong...but the last thing I was expecting was to be told I had Alzheimer's," he said.

Hundreds of families with similar stories took part in the 2009 Alzheimer's Walk at Stanley Park in Westfield.

"My grandfather died 5 years ago from Alzheimer's. It's just a terrible death...a terrible way to go," said Carrie Schreiber of Chicopee.

Sunday's rain didn't keep more than 1,200 walkers from supporting this cause.

According to the Alzheimer's Association, some 5.3 million Americans are living with the disease.

"We have over 20,000 people in this area that have the disease and the incidence is increasing," said Katheryn Hedgepeth of the Alzheimer's Association of Massachusetts.

The organization expected to raise $220,000 to raise awareness, support research efforts and help local families cope.

Hedgepeth said more needs to be done in Congress to increase funding for research and support services.

22News Anchor Barry Kriger was the event's emcee.

If you'd like to support the fight against this disease, visit the Alzheimer's Association website:
http://www.alz.org/