Mark Petronio

Help me reach my goal for Washburn Challenge!

On Saturday June 20th, I'm participating in the Washburn Challenge with my wife Janet by biking and kayaking, all to raise vital and funding for the care, support, and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association.

Today, over seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. And behind every diagnosis is a network of caregivers—nearly 13 million in the U.S. alone—providing unpaid care, often at great emotional, physical, and financial cost. This year, the total cost of Alzheimer’s and dementia care in the United States is estimated at $409 billion, making it one of the most expensive, and devastating, diseases in our country.

For the first time, not only do we have a blood test used in diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease cleared for use by the FDA, but we are also seeing treatments that do more than manage symptoms, they actually slow disease progression for people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. These treatments are not cures, but they are meaningful steps forward, and they have reshaped what is possible. Ongoing studies, including very promising prevention-focused trials, are exploring whether we can one day stop Alzheimer’s before symptoms ever appear.

The Washburn Challenge has raised over $1,220,000 since it began in 2017. Together, we can keep this momentum moving forward, and show those facing Alzheimer's that they are not alone. Please make a donation today to help the Alzheimer's Association continue supporting families, advocating on their behalf and driving research toward more advancements. 

Thank you!