Compiled by Debra Scherban. Please send items to dscherban@gazettenet.com.
The Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter will hold its annual Pioneer Valley Walk to End Alzheimer’s event in Holyoke Sept. 18.
Sign in begins at 8:30 a.m., at Holyoke Community College, 303 Homestead Avenue. The event will include a .25-mile and a 1.5-mile route. Participants also will have the opportunity to connect with local service providers and learn more about the programs and services the Alzheimer’s Association provides.
Online registration is now open.
“We want families to know they can do something to fight back against Alzheimer’s,” said Jim Wessler, President/CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH Chapter. “The funds raised provide support to people impacted by Alzheimer’s, while also contributing to the research that is critical to putting an end to this disease.”
For decades, the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter has provided support services such as its 24/7 telephone Helpline, care consultation and education programs at no cost.
Arden Lowe of South Hadley, who is participating in the walk for the third year, says her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and is on hospice care at a skilled nursing center.
“Alzheimer’s took everything away from her,” said Lowe.
She praised the help the Alzheimer’s organization provides.
“If you or a loved one has Alzheimer’s, check out your local chapter. They are a gold mine of information.”
Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. To register or volunteer for the Walk call 800-272-3900 or visit www.alzwalkMANH.org.
Dr. Ruth Potee, a Greenfield physician who is board certified in addiction medicine, will give a free talk at the Amherst Regional High School Library Sept. 22 on “teen/tween” brain development.
The presentation, which will begin at 7 p.m., focuses on how parents can help their children be safe, healthy and substance-free through the middle and high school years.
Potee is a nationally recognized expert in the area of adolescent brain development and its impact on teenage risk taking, A question and answer period will follow.
Childcare and light refreshments will be provided.
For more information or to sign up for childcare, contact ARHS at 362- 1700.
A free workshop for families and professionals on caregiving for those with dementia begins Sept. 21 and runs for 10 Wednesdays.
It will take place each week from 4 to 6 p.m. except Nov. 23 at Highland Valley Elder Services, 320 Riverside Drive, Florence.
Registration and a brief phone interview are required for new participants. To register, send name, phone number, email address and mailing address to:
dementia-initiative@comcast.net
Topics include the range of emotions and skills that come into play for caregivers ranging from empathy to anger, getting through the day and flexibility.
Area blood drives
To schedule an appointment to donate, use the free Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Following are some upcoming local blood donation opportunities.
Tuesday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., Yankee Candle, 25 Greenfield St., South Deerfield.