(Le Mars) — While carrying a 20 pound backpack on his back, a hiking stick in hand, and wearing a good pair of sneakers, Jeff Miller of West Des Moines, Iowa, has set a challenge for himself to walk approximately 325 miles across the state of Iowa calling attention and awareness to Alzheimer disease. Miller started on his cross-state trek Saturday morning from Akron. His plan is to
follow Highway 3.
Miller is often greeted by a friendly “Iowa wave” by passing motorists, and he hopes to be able to cover at least 20 miles a day. Le Mars was going to be his first over-night stop on his journey, with Dubuque as his final destination.
Miller says his sister was first diagnosed with the disease when she was 64 years of age, and soon afterwards she started suffering from dementia, which is a common symptom associated with Alzheimer disease.
Miller says his sister’s condition deteriorated rather quickly after being placed in the long-term care facility.
Miller hopes that his walk will raise funds to be directed towards additional research for finding a cure to the debilitating disease.
Of all the different ways to raise funds and awareness, Miller explains why he chose to walk across the state.
Although Miller is a four-time RAGBRAI veteran, this is his first time to visit this corner of northwest Iowa. He says he is amazed by the geography and terrain with the Loess Hills found in Plymouth County.
Miller says he prepared for the cross-state walk by doing a lot of walking, hiking of trails, and riding his bicycle, but after the first day, he admits to having sore legs and sore feet. Miller says once he has completed his Iowa journey, he fully expects his sneakers will be worn to the point that replacement of shoes will be necessary.
