Honoring Hispanic History and Culture During Hispanic Heritage Month

Shared by: Eddy Cardiel 

Tell us a little about yourself. 

My name is Eddy Cardiel and I am an epidemiologist in the Chicagoland area. I love exploring nature, watching the latest movies, attending live music events, and I just became addicted to collecting plants. 

How did you get involved with Walk to End Alzheimer's?

I witnessed my friend fight a tough battle with Alzheimer’s and dementia as both of his parents suffered from this disease. Although I could not physically do anything to relieve the pain of losing his parents, I decided to join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s committee for the Illinois Chapter in Chicago, to try to help in any way that I possibly could. I quickly became involved and learned about other people’s stories. I became passionate about helping and I have been a part of the committee for 7 lucky years now. We have a lot of work to do to find the first person cured of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Why should others raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer's disease?

Research and treatments have advanced tremendously within these past 7 years and I strongly feel that a cure will emerge soon. There are so many advances that could have never happened if people didn't get together to raise funds and awareness. Eradicating this disease will take an army, therefore, we need everyone to help out as best as they can in order to achieve eradicating this disease within our lifetime. Plus, the walks are always an amazing experience and it is a great tradition to have! I always bring my family and friends along.  

What do you want others to understand about Alzheimer's disease/dementia who may not have experienced it first-hand?

I haven't experienced this disease first-hand. However, I have been witness to how a person can be affected by this fatal and disastrous disease. Alzheimer’s and other dementias not only affect an individual’s health but the whole family gets the full effect. It is not easy to have a family member be diagnosed with a progressive brain disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association is calling on Chicago residents to come together in the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Chicago on Saturday, October 4 at its new location: Lincoln Park Grove 2 (1735 N. Stockton Dr., Chicago, IL 60614). Check-in begins at 8:00 a.m. Register today and get the latest updates: http://act.alz.org/chicagowalk