MONROE — Local resident Joan Kamholz will be the Honorary Chairperson of the 18th Annual Green County Alzheimer’s Walk Sept. 7 at the Behring Senior Center in Monroe.

Kamholz is heavily bound to the Green County community. She grew up and retired in the town of Juda where she served as a deputy sheriff for several years. Though she is currently retired from the position, her devotion toward others continues as she still works part-time for the sheriff’s office.

While Joan was committed to protecting her community, she also looked after her father. While spending time with her dad, David, she realized something wasn’t right and that he needed help. His judgment became increasingly impaired and eventually he could no longer distinguish what was real and what was not. 

For at least four years, Joan walked with her father through Alzheimer’s disease, no matter the difficulties that arose. When tough times arose, she would remind others that “it’s a disease, don’t get mad at your loved one, they can’t control it.” 

During the final stages of the disease, Joan said her largest struggle was “watching my Dad get to the point where he couldn’t walk, eat, drink, or do anything on his own.” Eventually, he also was “unable to speak, or recognize my mom or any of us kids.” By participating in the 2019 Alzheimer’s walk, Joan no longer feels powerless against this disease. Now she will have the chance “to help others going through this journey with loved ones” and honor the life of her father who recently passed away on May 15. 

Join the Kamholz family at this year’s Green County Alzheimer’s Walk at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7 at the Behring Senior Center in Monroe. Register for the STEP FORWARD GIVE HOPE walk or pledge support today at www.alzwisc.org. 

Walk-in registration at the event is also available. Proceeds from the walk help to provide valuable services, support and education to individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia in Green County.