This past Saturday, October 11, the UF Health Gator Brainwaves team proudly participated in the 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s, sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association. Held at Trinity United Methodist Church in Gainesville, the event brought together researchers, clinicians, students, families, caregivers, and advocates in a unified show of support for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
A Strong Showing from UF Health
UF Health had a visible and enthusiastic presence at this year’s event, with 100 registered participants representing programs and centers across the academic health center. Our team hosted two tents—one for UF Neuromedicine and another for the Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease (CTRND)—serving as hubs for community engagement and team coordination.
A highlight of the morning was the Brain Experience, an inflatable brain exhibit sponsored by UF Health and staffed by volunteers from the North Florida Chapter of the Society for Neuroscience. The display drew in walkers of all ages, sparking meaningful conversations about brain anatomy and Alzheimer’s-related changes in the brain.
In total, the Gator Brainwaves team raised an impressive $4,578.02, surpassing its original fundraising goal of $2,500. Team members from across UF Health—representing the McKnight Brain Institute, Florida1ADRC, PeCAN, CTRND, BRAIN Center, Center for NeuroGenetics, Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, Institute on Aging, and the Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases—came together to walk, volunteer, connect, and support one another.
A Day of Unity and Purpose
The walk served as more than just a fundraiser—it was a moment to socialize, raise awareness, and build community around a shared commitment to improving the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Participants gathered in memory of loved ones, in support of caregivers, and in honor of ongoing research efforts.
About the Walk to End Alzheimer’s
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Hosted by the Alzheimer’s Association, the walk takes place each year in more than 600 communities across the country. It unites people of all ages and backgrounds to honor those impacted by the disease and to advance the mission of finding a cure. Funds raised support local programs and national research aimed at understanding, treating, and ultimately preventing Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Thank You
UF Health Neurology is proud to support this important cause and grateful to every individual who walked, donated, volunteered, or helped spread the word. Together, we are making strides toward a future without Alzheimer’s.