An 81-year-old woman has completed a remarkable journey across the United States, walking nearly 3,000 miles from San Diego to St. Augustine. This extraordinary feat was celebrated by her supporters, who hailed it as historic, as reported by News 6 partner WJXT.

Dr. Judy Benjamin, who has been living with Alzheimer’s and is a survivor, successfully traversed approximately 2,800 miles on foot. Her arrival at the finish line was met with cheers and applause from friends and family.

“I never for a moment thought I wouldn’t make it,” Benjamin remarked confidently.

Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s 13 years ago, Benjamin has faced moments of despair, especially after witnessing her mother’s two-decade-long battle with the disease. However, she transformed her lifestyle by overhauling her diet, exercise, and medical care under the guidance of specialists.

“I developed an incredible peace about my life, acceptance about myself and the people in it,” she expressed.

Benjamin was treated by Dr. Dale Bredesen of the Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, who initially urged caution when he heard her plan for a cross-country walk.

“Judy, you’re 80 years old now. You were first treated when you were 67, you’ve done great for 13 years, but why don’t you just relax a little,” he recalled telling her.

Bredesen, who came to St. Augustine to witness her finish, said he was impressed by her accomplishment and its broader implications.

“I’m really impressed with what she’s done, and she’s bringing hope to a lot of people. She’s showing people that there is something to be done about cognitive decline, and please don’t wait,” he said.

Benjamin began the trek with her toes in the Pacific and ended it by dipping them into the Atlantic, a symbolic completion of her west-to-east journey. Along the way, family and friends cheered her on.