Alzheimer's Walk Sets Record With More Than 8,000 Walkers

DENVER (CBS4) - More than 8,000 people filled City Park in Denver Saturday for the 22nd annual Alzheimer's Walk.

CBS4 was a proud sponsor and Vic Lombardi was the emcee. The money raised will help find a cure.

"I'm here today in memory of my husband Cliff Cole," Mattye Pollard-Cole said.

"Jeanette Christiansen, my mother-in-law," another participant said.

They were all there for different people but still with one goal in mind. The people walked for someone in their life with Alzheimer's and hope one day for a cure.

"In a way it's very hard to lose him but he's out of his misery and in a better place," Cole said.

PHOTO GALLERY: 22nd Annual Alzheimer's Walk

Cole lost her husband to Alzheimer's just six months ago. Even though he had the disease for more than six years his passing was still difficult.

"I wasn't prepared at all because before Cliff was diagnosed we had not experienced this disease in our family," Cole said.

Doctors say finding a cure is still a ways away.

"I'd like to say we're close -- we're not. It is going to be a long, tough marathon. But there is tremendous dedication," Dr. Don Murphy with Senior Care of Colorado said.

Dedication because of people like Larry Schwartz who's not letting having this disease bring his spirits down.

"In my life I've had big ups and big downs but I made it through and wherever I go is where I go and that's what you have to live with," Schwartz said.

As the ribbon was cut the walkers took off. Some wore shirts with pictures of a loved one that has passed and others held flowers with their name never forgetting a life lost to this disease.

"I love him and miss him and I'm so sorry he had to go through this disease," Cole said.

The walk set a record as more than 8,000 participated. It raised more than $600,000 but more is expected as people send in their pledges.