Pittsfield Family Committed to Alzheimer Cause

The Collins Family of Pittsfield will be joining the movement to end Alzheimer’s disease at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s taking place in Cambridge on Sunday, September 29. The family will walk in honor of Deb Collins, wife of Kelly Collins and mother to KC, Brennan, Ryan and Betsy Collins. 

“Deb was diagnosed in March of 2010. At that time, she was determined to do something to get involved,” said the family. “The Walk to End Alzheimer’s provided the perfect opportunity to empower her.”

This year marks the Collins family third year participating in the Walk on their team, “Queen Deb’s Bees,” named after Deb’s childhood nickname. Fondly referring to themselves as Deb’s Bees, the entire Collins family and friends help provide support and care. “Buzzing around the Queen are her bees," said the family. "While we each have different occupations, our greatest job is to care for Deb and for one another as we navigate the daily realities of Alzheimer’s disease.”

By participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, the Collins 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 the Collins family 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.