Local girl raises awareness for Alzheimer’s with homemade bracelets

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — This November, 8News is “Taking the Lead” on the “Walk to end Alzheimer’s.” One little girl is also taking the lead, to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s Disease.

Allyson Foor, 10, is making and selling “End ALZ” bracelets to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association. Already, she has made more than 90 pieces of jewelry, using more than 2,300 beads.

“I love to help people,” Allyson said. She first learned about Alzheimer’s Disease at the “Walk to end Alzheimer’s” in 2014 and developed an interest in it.

“That prompted her to do a little reading, watch some movies,” said her mom, Amanda Foor.

But it wasn’t until Allyson saw the movie “Still Alice,” about a woman with Alzheimer’s, that she formulated a plan.

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“It occurred to my mom and I that if we raise awareness they will find a cure faster,” Allyson said.

Alzheimer’s Disease is the 6th leading cause of death for people over 65, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

The disease impacts a person’s mental and physical abilities and gets worse over time. Currently, there are an estimated 5.3 million people who are living with it. There is no way to cure, prevent, or slow its progression.

Allyson is hoping her bracelets will help in the fight to end Alzheimer’s.

“Doing something this small could make a really big difference.” She wants to see everyone wear a bracelet, “because it shows they care,” she said.

If you’re interested in learning more about Allyson’s “End ALZ” bracelets call Jeff Baldwin with the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Richmond Chapter at 804-864-3678.

8News is walking in this year’s “Walk to end Alzheimer’s” on Nov. 7. We invite you come out too and walk to find a cure.

We will be walking with the Alzheimer’s Staff and Friends’ Walk Team. Visit the Walk to End Alzheimer’s website to learn more about how you can take part.