Dementia runs deep in my family: my kindhearted Dad, Aunt, Grandfather and others all lost their lives to it. Alzheimer’s Disease doesn't just affect an individual; it creates a ripple effect of physical, financial, and emotional strain that fundamentally reshapes the entire family caregiving structure. In NC alone, an estimated 381,000 dementia caregivers are providing 739 million hours of unpaid care each year. The burden is heavy and insurance, including Medicare, does not cover the majority of care costs. This is why Dementia Alliance of North Carolina focuses all of our efforts locally and offer insight, compassionate support, and assistance to those who are living with or caring for individuals throughout all stages and types of dementia. Over the past year, Dementia Alliance of North Carolina has served over 14,000 people living with dementia and their caregivers with the care and support they need to navigate a dementia diagnosis through our education, navigation and support programs. That is why I am fundraising at this year's Walk to Defeat Dementia! Will you join me in supporting caregivers and those living with dementia?