Families, caregivers and supporters are invited to walk together, honor loved ones and raise money for Alzheimer’s research and support services.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — For families facing Alzheimer’s disease, every memory matters, and every step brings hope.

The annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s returns to Corpus Christi on Saturday, Oct. 31, bringing families, caregivers and supporters together to raise awareness and funds for those affected by the disease.

The free event will take place at Heritage Park, located at 1581 N. Chaparral St., beginning at 8 a.m.

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For organizer Marissa Ford, the cause is deeply personal.

“My mother has Alzheimer’s. My dad had Parkinson’s with a diagnosis of dementia,” Ford said during an appearance on 3NEWS First Edition. “It really hits home.” Ford said the walk is about more than raising money. It’s also about helping families find comfort, resources and others who understand what they’re going through.

“It’s also an event for people to come and join each other and know that they’re not alone in their journey,” she said. Participants can register individually, form teams and raise money to support Alzheimer’s care, research and support services.

One of the event’s most meaningful traditions is the Promise Garden, where participants carry colorful flowers representing their personal connection to the disease.

Each flower color carries a special meaning. Purple honors those who have lost a loved one to Alzheimer’s or dementia, blue represents someone living with Alzheimer’s, yellow recognizes caregivers, and orange symbolizes supporters committed to fighting the disease.

Ford said these connections can bring hope during a difficult time. “It’s the silver lining in such a grim diagnosis,” she said. “We try not to look at it that way because it can be a journey and a fun journey.”

The walk also comes as researchers continue making progress in diagnosing and treating Alzheimer’s.

Although there is no cure, FDA-cleared blood tests can help doctors evaluate certain patients with symptoms of cognitive decline. At the same time, some approved medications can slow the progression of early Alzheimer’s. Ford encourages families to participate, share their stories and discover the resources available in their community.

With the walk falling on Halloween, participants are also welcome to dress up, bring their dogs or carry photographs of loved ones they want to honor. Registration is free, and donations are encouraged but not required.

To register or learn more, visit the Corpus Christi Walk to End Alzheimer’s website.