Ironman athlete with early-onset Alzheimer’s to headline Park City fundraiser

Photo: Alzheimer’s Walk

PARK CITY, Utah — The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, the largest nationwide event aimed at raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research, returns this Saturday to Park City at 9 a.m. at the Basin Recreation Fieldhouse.

With 55 teams and 320 participants this year, the Walk has seen a 23% growth from last year’s 24 teams and 260 walkers. Fundraising efforts have already reached over $125,000, with a goal of $140,000 by event day.

The walk will feature a special guest speaker: Dan Jaworski, whose personal battle with Alzheimer’s has become a beacon of hope for many. Diagnosed in 2019 at the age of 54 with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease, Jaworski has not let his diagnosis deter him from pursuing his passion for athletics. He contacted the IRONMAN Foundation to secure a place in the Kona race in 2019. He hopes to fulfill his dream of qualifying for the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, in 2040. “My goal is to make it back to Kona in 2040 even though the mortality rates say I won’t be there,” Joworski shared.

Jaworski’s journey began after he noticed memory issues during a family trip and struggled with everyday tasks, such as navigating familiar routes. His diagnosis was a life-altering moment, but instead of surrendering to it, Jaworski turned to endurance sports to fight back. He fulfilled his dream of qualifying for the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, combining his athletic pursuits with a mission to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research.

To date, Jaworski has raised more than $30,000 through The Longest Day, another Alzheimer’s Association initiative, further cementing his role as both an athlete and an advocate. His story serves as an inspiration to those facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s and MCI.

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s plays a crucial role in funding research and providing care and support to the 38,000 people in Utah living with Alzheimer’s. In addition to the funds raised through the walk, the event fosters a sense of community and hope through initiatives like the Promise Garden. Participants will carry flowers in colors representing their connection to the disease: blue for those living with Alzheimer’s, yellow for caregivers, purple for those who have lost someone, and orange for supporters of the cause.

The event, which takes place rain or shine, welcomes walkers of all ages and abilities. While registration is free, participants are encouraged to donate and fundraise in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. Champions, those who raise $500 or more, have already increased significantly this year, with 40 individuals reaching the milestone compared to just 27 last year.

Volunteers are still needed to help with various event-day tasks, including set-up, clean-up, and manning water stations. Interested individuals can visit the Walk’s website to learn more about how to get involved.

For more information on the Walk to End Alzheimer’s contact Lisa Phinney.