Around The Cracker Barrel - Walking Toward Hope: The Fight to End Alzheimer’s with Gwen Mikinski (Aired 08/14/2026)

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley welcomes Gwen Mikinski, Manager for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, for an important conversation about Alzheimer’s disease, its impact on Southern Arizona families, and how the community can come together to support those living with the disease and their caregivers.Gwen shares details about the 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Tucson, taking place Saturday, October 10 at Reid Park in Tucson. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m., followed by the opening ceremony at 9:00 a.m. and the walk at 9:30 a.m., with participants able to choose either a one-mile or three-mile route. There is no fee to register.The need for awareness and support continues to grow. Gwen explains that more than 152,000 Arizonans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, while more than 242,000 people across the state serve as caregivers, many of them family members. The discussion explores the emotional and financial toll caregiving can take, particularly for those balancing careers, children and caring for an aging parent.Guy and Gwen also discuss some of the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s, including memory problems that begin interfering with everyday life, difficulty completing familiar tasks and significant changes in mood or behavior. Gwen stresses that Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging and can also affect people in their 40s and 50s through early-onset disease.There is also encouraging news surrounding research and earlier diagnosis. Gwen discusses advances in testing and treatments designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s when detected in its earlier stages, along with the important research taking place right here in Southern Arizona. Funds raised through the Walk to End Alzheimer’s help support this research as well as education, advocacy and services for individuals and families.The conversation also highlights ways people can support brain health throughout their lives, including regular exercise, nutritious foods, quality sleep and maintaining strong social connections.The Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Tucson takes place October 10, 2026 at Reid Park. Participants can register, create or join a team, raise funds or simply help spread awareness. Registration information is available at alz.org/tucsonwalk.