Riding to end Alzheimer’s, Carol Stone of Oakton.
Oakton resident Carol Stone is the co-chair of the local volunteer Community Engagement Committee responsible for planning and promoting the new event. Stone has participated in Ride to End ALZ events in Colorado and Texas, as well as other Alzheimer’s Association cycling events, including the South Carolina Chapter’s multi-day Ride to Remember, which is now part of the Ride to End ALZ family of events.
“After participating in the South Carolina ride, I knew that the passion, fundraising success and experience of such an event needed to be shared with others – so I set a goal of creating an Alzheimer’s Association cycling event in my state,” said Stone. “I am passionate about the Ride to End ALZ because I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact these events can have on the participants, volunteers, supporters, spectators and communities and on the fight against dementia.”
Stone’s paternal grandmother was diagnosed with senility in the 1960s, a time when little was known about Alzheimer’s disease. Years later, her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s after she began to exhibit symptoms in her mid-70s. Stone’s mother-in-law then developed the disease, living with the family for three years. “Like too many, my involvement with Alzheimer’s is personal,” said Stone. “My family and I have experienced the devastation of this disease and the difficulties faced by caregivers, whether family members or professionals dedicated to providing care. I have also witnessed their incredible kindness, compassion and sacrifice. While caring for my mother-in-law we were fortunate to have the support of the local community, including the Alzheimer’s Association.”
The Ride to End ALZ will take place in Loudoun County, with the start and finish at Morven Park in Leesburg. Check in opens at 6 a.m., with the ride starting at 7 a.m. Participants can choose a 25-mile, 45-mile, 70-mile, or 100-mile route with breathtaking views. The fully supported event will have rest stops along every route, as well as mechanics, SAG (support and gear), breakfast, lunch and live entertainment.
People can register for the Ride to End ALZ at alz.org/ride. Select the Nation’s Capital option to register for the event. All participants must be 13 years of age or older. Riders are required to make a registration donation to get started and agree to raise the fundraising minimum of $500 in order to participate. The registration donation will be counted towards that minimum.
One hundred percent of proceeds from the Ride will support Alzheimer’s research. As the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research, the Alzheimer’s Association is committed to accelerating the global progress of new treatments, preventions and, ultimately, a cure. Learn more about research at alz.org/research.
While the Ride’s purpose is to raise funds to support critical dementia research, Stone notes there is an important personal aspect to the event: “Meeting the volunteers and participating in the Ride is incredibly inspiring. Hearing their stories is emotional yet heartwarming. The connection to the mission and the support for each other is profound. It is magical! Build a team, donate, volunteer, spread awareness, advocate. You will be glad you did. There is so much we can and will accomplish together.”
For more information on Ride to End ALZ Nation’s Capital, visit alz.org/ride or contact Brenda Buchanan, director of the Ride at 512-572-0153 or at bbuchanan@alz.org.
The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Visit alz.org or call 800-272-3900.