Johnston residents came together this weekend for a cause that hits close to home for many families: frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The inaugural Walk for FTD, held at Terra Park, attracted over 400 participants who enjoyed live music, food trucks, family-friendly activities and educational resources about this often‑overlooked form of dementia that commonly affects people under age 60.
Local leadership fuels the effort
Melissa Jacobson, a longtime Johnston resident, organized the event with a clear goal: raise $75,000 to fund research, caregiver resources and community programs aimed at supporting those living with FTD. “Our community has a responsibility to stand with families battling this disease,” Jacobson said. “By bringing people together, we can generate both hope and tangible help for those who need it most.”
Celebrity advocate adds visibility
Emma Heming Willis, wife of actor Bruce Willis and a public advocate for FTD, joined local volunteers on the walk. “Visibility matters, and I will keep doing whatever I can until we find treatments and a cure,” Heming Willis told attendees. “As an FTD wife and care partner, there is something incredibly powerful about being with people who simply get it.” Her presence underscored the event’s mission to broaden public understanding of the disease.
Families and friends find support
The park’s open layout allowed families to mingle, share stories and learn about resources available through local health providers and nonprofit groups. Information tables offered brochures on early‑symptom detection, caregiving strategies and upcoming support‑group meetings. Attendees praised the inclusive atmosphere, noting that the walk provided a rare opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges.
Fundraising and future plans
While the walk’s immediate fundraising target of $75,000 has not yet been met, organizers are optimistic. Donations collected at the event will be directed to research institutions studying FTD, as well as to local agencies that provide respite care and counseling for caregivers. Jacobson indicated that this inaugural walk is just the beginning; plans are already underway for an annual event that could grow to include more volunteers, additional fundraising streams and expanded educational programming.
Community impact
Local officials praised the effort as an example of grassroots civic engagement that strengthens family bonds and promotes public‑health awareness. “Events like this demonstrate the power of our community to rally around a common cause,” said Johnston Mayor Jason Smith. “By supporting families affected by frontotemporal dementia, we uphold the values of compassion, faith and personal responsibility that define our city.”
The Walk for FTD highlighted how a single community can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those confronting a difficult diagnosis. As families left Terra Park, many expressed hope that the momentum generated this weekend will translate into lasting support, research breakthroughs and, ultimately, a cure.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
