Chesterfield resident channels Alzheimer's grief into community support

TL;DR: A Chesterfield resident whose mother died of Alzheimer's is channeling her family's grief into raising awareness and funds for research through an annual community walk.

The story

Melissa Gilmore, a Chesterfield resident, has turned her family's experience with Alzheimer's disease into a mission to support other families facing the disease.

Gilmore's mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease at age 68 in 2008 and died 14 years ago. The diagnosis significantly impacted her family's life, but eventually the family found support through the Alzheimer's Association. That experience prompted Gilmore to take action.

Eight years ago, Gilmore and her husband began participating in the Richmond Walk to End Alzheimer's as a two-person team. Since then, their team has expanded as other families have joined them in raising awareness and funds for research and care services.

"Ask for help. Seek help. No one has to do it alone," Gilmore emphasizes, encouraging families who are navigating an Alzheimer's or dementia diagnosis to reach out for community support. "Find your people. Find your community," she adds.

The Walk to End Alzheimer's is scheduled for Saturday, November 7 at City Stadium in Richmond. The event is organized by the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Richmond Chapter, and aims to raise awareness and funds for research and support services for those affected by Alzheimer's disease. More than 160,000 Virginians currently live with Alzheimer's disease.

Key players

• Melissa Gilmore: Chesterfield resident and Walk to End Alzheimer's participant; lost mother to Alzheimer's disease
• Alzheimer's Association, Greater Richmond Chapter: Organizer of the Walk to End Alzheimer's event

Key dates

• 2026-11-07: Walk to End Alzheimer's at City Stadium

Why it matters: Alzheimer's disease affects more than 160,000 Virginians and their families. Support networks and community fundraising help fund research while providing caregivers and patients with resources and connection during a difficult journey.

Places

• City Stadium

Related links

• Alzheimer's Association, Greater Richmond Chapter
• 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer's, Richmond
• Alzheimer's Association Helpline (24/7)

Read the original at WTVR CBS 6 Local →

Sources

• WTVR CBS 6: Chesterfield Woman Turns Alzheimer's Grief Into Hope
• Alzheimer's Association, Greater Richmond Chapter
• 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer's, Richmond