New York City – A crowd of hundreds gathered in Central Park on Saturday for the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s, a community‑focused event that highlights the impact of the disease on families across the city.

Local leaders step up

Eyewitness News anchor Bill Ritter served as emcee alongside sports anchor Ryan Field. Ritter, who has publicly shared his own Alzheimer’s diagnosis, spoke passionately about the importance of keeping the conversation about the disease front and center.

“The people who are here today who would not have been here a year ago. I salute you, I love you and you’re making a difference and thank you for being here today. It makes a world of difference,” Ritter said, urging participants to continue supporting one another.

Why the walk matters

According to city health officials, roughly 188,000 New Yorkers are living with Alzheimer’s disease. The walk brings together participants, caregivers, advocates and supporters to raise awareness, share resources and foster a sense of community for those affected.

Organizers emphasized that early detection and ongoing research are critical to improving outcomes for patients and families. The event also serves as a fundraiser for local nonprofits that provide education, support groups and respite services.

Community response

Attendees described the walk as a hopeful reminder that they are not alone in facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s. Many families expressed gratitude for the visibility the event brings to a condition that often carries stigma.

“Seeing so many people here gives us strength,” said one caregiver who has been supporting a loved one with the disease for several years. “It shows that the city cares and that we can keep fighting together.”

Looking ahead

Ritter and Field encouraged participants to stay engaged throughout the year, whether by volunteering, donating or simply sharing information with friends and neighbors. The next Walk to End Alzheimer’s is scheduled for the same time next year, with hopes of expanding outreach to more boroughs.

For those unable to attend in person, a live stream of the event was made available on the station’s website, allowing the broader community to join the conversation and learn about resources available in New York City.

Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.