By Dante Nunez, KTEN News

DENISON, Texas — Runners laced up their shoes for the 14th annual Texoma Caregiver Celebration Walk to raise funds and awareness for loved ones who have passed and those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

“I really want to support caregivers in any way that I can,” said Olivia Lewis. “I lost my grandfather to Alzheimer’s when I was a kid.”

The Texoma Council of Governments aims to improve the quality of life for those living with chronic illnesses and other diseases.

“I remember the home-health caregivers coming and supporting him at his last years, so I really just want to do anything that I can to give back… even if it’s giving $20 to participate,” Lewis said.

The funds generated from Saturday’s event at Grayson College assist all individual caregivers and will remain in Cooke, Fannin and Grayson counties.

“It is an event to raise funds to help with programs, and programs that help caregivers of family members who have Alzheimer’s and dementia,” local elder care director Rick Wilson said.

The community also brought their furry friends for a dog costume contest to help raise more money.

“We’re all just trying to bring people out to participate in the Caregiver Walk to make money for TCOG, said Toni Wheeler of Home Hospice.

But for Olivia Lewis, events like these mean so much to her.

“I think it’s important, especially grateful for Grayson College for hosting this and sponsoring this and really showing support for our county and our local needs… especially needing health and wellness needs in our community,” she said.

The American Association of Retired Persons says caregiver services are valued at $470 billion annually.

Source: http://www.kten.com/story/41053434/celebrating-caregivers-at-denison-event