Bill Ritter to Participate in Alzheimer's Walk and Brain Health Day

ABC7NY journalist Bill Ritter, who is living with Alzheimer's disease, is inviting New Yorkers to join him at CaringKind's 38th Annual Alzheimer's Walk and Brain Health Day. The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, in Central Park and will honor Ritter and Jed Levine. The walk is part of the "Know Your Brain. Walk With Me." campaign, a national public awareness initiative.

The event will offer free brain health pre-screenings and experiences for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Actor David Hyde Pierce and ABC7NY's Mike Marza will serve as emcees. Registration opens at 9:30 a.m., with the opening ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Participation is free and can be done in person or virtually by registering at CKWALK.ORG.

Ritter, who has emceed the event for 28 years, stated that his personal experience with Alzheimer's has motivated him to take a more active role. "My quest is to help CaringKind, along with ABC7 Eyewitness News, to bring people together and to battle Alzheimer's," Ritter said. He emphasized the need for unity in fighting the disease for those affected, future patients, and their caregivers.

CaringKind President and CEO Eleonora Tornatore-Mikesh highlighted the campaign's goal to transform awareness into ongoing action. The event will feature brain health screenings and resources aimed at promoting brain wellness. Jed Levine, CaringKind's President Emeritus, will also be honored for his significant contributions to the organization.