Runners embodying hope and determination during the Boston Marathon.
Ralph Carmona, a 74-year-old from Portland, is preparing for his first Boston Marathon to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research. Clad in a bright yellow jersey, Ralph symbolizes hope amid his Alzheimer’s diagnosis. His journey highlights the importance of funding for medical research, especially following the approval of a new drug aimed at slowing disease progression. As he trains, Ralph draws support from friends and his community while advocating for continued federal backing for critical research.
In the vibrant city of Portland, a remarkable story is unfolding. Meet Ralph Carmona, a 74-year-old man who has not let Alzheimer’s disease dim his passion for life. Instead of sitting back and watching the world go by, Ralph is gearing up to lace up his running shoes for his very first Boston Marathon on April 21.
When Ralph hits the pavement for his training runs, he’s hard to miss. Clad in a bright yellow jersey emblazoned with “End Alz”, he stands as a beacon of hope and determination. Just recently, he completed a brisk 6-mile run along the breathtaking Eastern Promenade, a stunning route that captures the essence of Portland’s beauty.
About ten years ago, Ralph received the life-changing news that he had Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that affects approximately 7 million people nationwide and nearly 29,000 in Maine. But rather than succumb to despair, Ralph took this devastating diagnosis in stride, interpreting it not as an end, but as a new chapter filled with purpose.
This marathon isn’t just any race for Ralph; it is deeply personal. He aims to raise awareness regarding the critical need for funding in medical research. Ralph has participated in a clinical trial through the National Institutes of Health that contributed towards the testing of a groundbreaking medication known as Leqembi. This drug, newly approved by the FDA in 2023, has shown it can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s by an average of 27% over the span of 18 months. Such breakthroughs in medical research are what Ralph believes can offer hope to countless individuals affected by similar diseases.
Despite the advances in treatment, Ralph passionately advocates for continued federal support for medical research. He is particularly concerned about the potential funding cuts proposed by the Trump administration, which could jeopardize not just Alzheimer’s research, but also funding for other serious conditions like cancer.
Ralph credits his ability to maintain his running stamina and manage his Alzheimer’s effectively to a healthy lifestyle. Following a Mediterranean diet and working as an educator at Southern Maine Community College, he has turned his life into a testament of resilience. With enthusiasm, he shares that he is determined to break his qualifying time of 4 hours and 4 minutes at the Boston Marathon.
Praise from friends and fellow runners, including enthusiastic support from his running buddy Bob Dunfey, keeps his spirits high. Many admire Ralph’s positive energy and unwavering determination. Moreover, his personal motivation draws heavily from his mother, who also battled Alzheimer’s. Ralph is driven by the thought of preventing a similar fate for himself.
For Ralph, there’s something exhilarating about running. He describes the experience as an “electrifying feeling” that keeps his mind sharp and engaged. Feeling both alive and challenged, running acts as a mental boost as he prepares not just for the race, but for the advocacy he stands for.
As the Boston Marathon approaches, Ralph has set the goal of raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Association, channeling his efforts into supporting essential research. His initiative stands as an inspiring call to action for others, encouraging individuals to “fight the fight” against Alzheimer’s through research and public awareness.
While the Boston Marathon doesn’t specifically track participation among those with medical conditions, Ralph’s qualification at his age is nothing short of impressive. As he prepares to take on this challenge, his story is set to inspire not just fellow runners but anyone touched by Alzheimer’s. In the end, Ralph’s journey is a poignant reminder of hope and the ongoing battle against diseases that seek to hinder rather than define our lives.
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