Worcester Woman Committed to Alzheimer Cause

Mary Paldino of Worcester will be joining the movement to end Alzheimer’s disease at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s taking place in Worcester on Sunday, September 29. Paldino will walk in honor of her father, Donald Paldino.

“My father is my hero, I've been daddy’s little girl since I was born. His diagnosis has been the hardest thing I’ve had to deal with in my life,” said Paldino. “You don't realize how many people are in the same position. Alzheimer’s disease does not discriminate.”

This year will be Paldino’s second time participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s as captain of her team, “In Honor of Donald R Paldino Sr.” After her father’s diagnosis Paldino decided to get a tattoo of the Alzheimer’s ribbon with the saying, “Daddy’s Little Girl” written in Italian. “There’s a lot of comradery between those who walk and have been affected by the Alzheimer’s disease,” said Paldino. “I just hope to see the walks grow in participation.”

By participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Paldino will be helping to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and money to support research, programs and services for the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter.

“There has never been a greater need to join in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease by participating in Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” said James Wessler, President/CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter.  “We are truly grateful to Mary and all of those participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s for their commitment.”

Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and is now the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death.  As baby boomers age, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today’s estimated 5.4 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s. The disease has a significant impact on family members, with nearly 15 million providing care to a loved one, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.