As we kick off our first Walks of 2022 this Saturday, September 10th, we would like to take a moment to recognize our dedicated Walk Team. Throughout the year, this team works tirelessly to ensure that we continue to raise awareness, fundraise for research and host successful walks across Washington State, North Idaho and Alaska. Learn a little more about each of our Walk the End Alzheimer’s Managers and what inspires them to continue to fight to end Alzheimer’s.
Jordan Hunter • Spokane, Coeur d’Alene (ID), Moses Lake and Kennewick Walks
Hi, I’m Jordan! I have lived in Spokane for most of my life and graduated from Washington State University (Go Cougs!). My husband and I have a one-year-old daughter named Lucy and another on the way, due next February. We love to spend time with our family, eat lots of pizza and watch the Office.
I came to the Alzheimer’s association because I have a passion for helping others. In the last year and a half I have met so many people affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia and I want to play a part in creating a world free of the disease. I hope my kids can grow up and never worry about their parents forgetting who they are.
Sam Brayer • Seattle Walk
I’m Sam Brayer, I’m a Seattle transplant by way of Chicago and the Midwest. I love to swim, travel and explore all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer!
Working for the Association is extremely personal for me. I walk in honor of my family back in Chicago. My team is named after my grandfather Stan, who passed away from Alzheimer’s and my incredible grandmother Emilie, who was his caregiver. He ran a jazz club, the once famous London House in Chicago, so Mr. Stan’s Band is named after him and my determined spirit comes from my grandmother. My newest reason to walk is my new nephew Baby G, so that he can grow up in a world free of dementia and Alzheimer’s and be able to spend as much time with his grandparents as possible (and his favorite Aunt!)
Emily Hockey • Everett, Skagit County and Bellingham Walks
Hello! I am Emily Hockey and I live in Bellingham, WA. I love being out in our community, meeting folks and working toward the common goal of a world without Alzheimer’s or any form of dementia. When I am not working I love traveling with my partner and our two dogs. Mountains, sea, or desert; new sights and adventures are always the goal!
I joined the Alzheimer’s Association because I have a personal connection to the disease. After looking around and seeing others walking in the same struggle, I feel honored to now Walk alongside them in hopes that one day we will have someone walk with the first white flower, representing the first survivor of the disease. Being part of this movement has given me, and countless others, the opportunity to feel powerful in a time when one can often feel powerless.
Erica Grissmerson • Tri-Cities, Wenatchee and Yakima Walks
My name is Erica Grissmerson. I am originally from Salt Lake City, UT but grew up mostly in Eastern Oregon. I moved to Washington in 2009. I love going kayaking on the Yakima River with my husband and friends, I have 4 dogs and I love reading a good book!
I walk for all those facing Alzheimer’s or another dementia and for all of their family members out there. My mom ran memory care facilities my entire life, so growing up watching Alzheimer’s and other dementias affect so many families I knew there was more I could do. That is why I work every day to help find a cure for this devastating disease.
Cyrese Gorrin • Anchorage (AK) Walk
Hey, I’m Cyrese! I am a born and raised Alaskan with a big family. I love to make others laugh and feel good about themselves! When I’m not researching all-inclusive resorts to visit, or making gourmet meals my kids refuse to eat, I’m playing in the snow or soaking up every second of vitamin D we have coming in.
I come from a long line of advocates and philanthropists, helping others is in my genes. When my father-in-law was diagnosed with dementia my work became personal and I wanted to be part of finding a cure. I’m so proud of the work the Alzheimer’s Association has done worldwide and I’m excited to see our efforts expand in Alaska.
Maddy Carr • Supports All Walks in Washington, North Idaho and Alaska
I am from Los Angeles and very happy to be back in Seattle! I love to be outside and enjoy the sunshine.
I am so happy to be a part of the Alzheimer’s Association and be a part of this wonderful cause. I walk for my grandmother, and it means so much to me to play my part. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is near to my heart and I cannot wait for this Walk season!
The 2022 Walk season starts this Saturday, September 10th with Walks happening in Silverdale, Wenatchee, Lewiston and Burlington! Join us in the fight to end Alzheimer’s. Register your team or find your local walk at alz.org/walk.