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Local Woman Completes 550-Mile Hike for Alzheimer’s Awareness

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Scenic hiking trail on Camino de Santiago

News Summary

Anne Burris, a local woman, has completed a challenging 550-mile hike along the Camino de Santiago to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s disease after losing her mother to the condition. Over 68 days, Burris faced harsh weather, including tropical storm winds, yet successfully raised $2,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association. Her journey highlights the importance of community support for Alzheimer’s care, as more than 17,000 individuals in Duval County alone are affected by the disease. Burris’s story encourages others to confront their challenges while advocating for those impacted by Alzheimer’s.

Jacksonville – A local woman has completed a remarkable 550-mile hike to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that affects a significant portion of the elderly population in Duval County. Anne Burris embarked on her journey eight years after losing her mother to the debilitating effects of Alzheimer’s, a disease that impacts roughly one out of every eight individuals over 65 in the area, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Burris accomplished the challenging Camino de Santiago hike, traversing the route from the border of France to the coasts of Spain over the span of 68 days. During the trek, she faced numerous obstacles, including heavy rain and winds reaching speeds of 55 miles per hour. The tropical storm winds made it particularly arduous to maintain her progress, but Burris persevered, motivated by her mission to generate awareness and support for those afflicted by the disease.

Throughout the hike, Burris successfully raised approximately $2,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association. Her hope is that her journey inspires others to face their challenges head-on, drawing parallels to the struggles families experience while caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s. Burris emphasizes the significance of raising awareness about the disease and understanding its impact not only on patients but on families and communities as well.

Understanding Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that leads to memory loss, cognitive decline, and ultimately, loss of ability to perform everyday activities. Burris described the condition as debilitating, explaining that it often brings those affected to a “childlike state.” In Florida, the situation is critical, with the state holding the second-highest rate of Alzheimer’s in the nation. More than 580,000 residents are currently living with the disease, placing a considerable burden on families and caregivers.

Local Impact

In Duval County alone, over 17,000 individuals aged 65 and older are battling Alzheimer’s, which represents 12.1 percent of that demographic. With many families facing the pressure of caregiving responsibilities, the importance of local community support is essential. Organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association offer resources and support, including a 24/7 Helpline available at 800-272-3900, providing families with guidance through the challenges presented by the disease.

Community Events and Involvement

The upcoming Walk to End Alzheimer’s event in Jacksonville is scheduled for Sunday, November 9, 2025, at the University of North Florida (UNF). This event underscores the role of community engagement in combating the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Local participation and activism are vital to supporting those affected by the condition, promoting therapy, and fostering connection through shared experiences.

Additionally, young community members, such as KayLynn Stokes, contribute to awareness efforts by volunteering at annual events like the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, running the Kids Zone, and educating participants about the cause. Stokes’s involvement highlights the importance of nurturing a community ethos, where together, they can support those navigating the challenges associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

How to Get Involved

Individuals looking to support Alzheimer’s initiatives can visit alz.org/TLD, where they can search for Anne Burris or her campaign, “A Pilgrimage for a Cure.” The involvement of community members in raising awareness and funding for Alzheimer’s research and support services is crucial in navigating the ever-growing impact of this disease on families and society.

Burris’s journey through her lengthy hike stands as a testament to the strength and resilience needed in facing life’s obstacles, particularly those surrounding Alzheimer’s disease. Her story urges others in the community to take manageable steps in addressing their personal challenges while fostering a supportive environment for those in need.

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