For the first 10 years of my life, I spent most weekdays in the backseat of my mom’s Chevy Suburban, trekking to and from my Nona’s house in the heart of Nonantum. My Nona, Esther, had Alzheimer’s disease.

My mom, born and raised in Nonantum and West Newton, served as her primary caregiver. My brother, sister, and I were, out of necessity, junior caregivers. After her long battle with Alzheimer’s, my Nona passed away in 2010.

Today, I am a Nonantum resident myself. I think of my Nona and her influence on my life often. Her battle with Alzheimer’s left a mark on me and I honor her memory today by serving as the Chair of the Greater Boston Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The Walk is organized by our local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, whose offices are also in Nonantum.

I write to personally invite all Newton residents to join us at the Walk on Sunday, Oct. 26, at North Point Park in Cambridge. Walkers can expect a lively opening program, fun and games, and a choice to walk the 1- or 3-mile routes along the Charles River. The funds and awareness raised by the Walk go directly towards research, programs, and support for families throughout Newton and across the country dealing with Alzheimer’s and all dementia.

So, join us. We expect a beautiful fall day and look forward to coming together to find a cure to Alzheimer’s and all dementia!

You can learn more about the Walk and register here: https://act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2025/MA-MassachusettsNewHampshire?pg=entry&fr_id=18641

Katherine O’Malley

Nonantum