Annual walk aims to raise funds for Alzheimer’s in KFL&A
The IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s is back, albeit with a pandemic twist. This year the goal is to raise more than $53,000 throughout the month of May. Participants are encouraged to take at least one step in support of each one of the 4,300 people living with dementia in KFL&A, their caregivers and their families. That can be done on a daily or weekly basis in May.
“Just like our clients have needed us more than ever this year,” Executive Director at the Alzheimer Society of KFL&A, Vicki Poffley said, “We also need your help more than ever before. We are hoping to exceed last year’s walk revenues of $53,000 and we’re sure that KFL&A residents can make that happen, by either walking or donating to the cause!”
The Alzheimer Society of KFL&A relies on the public to join the annual IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s, as the pandemic negatively impacted many of its services across the country last year. They say that by joining the walk and raising funds, it will allow them to shift many of its services online while continuing to meet the needs of people living with dementia, and their caregivers in KFL&A.
“But more funds are needed to meet the growing demand for life-changing support, including support groups and one to one counselling, education sessions, and recreational programs for people living with dementia and their caregivers,” an event press release stated.
To get involved, the public is encouraged to sign up either as an individual, family or as a team. Sign-ups take place at www.walkforalzheimer.ca, and then by selecting either the Kingston or Lennox and Addington walk.
“This isn’t a journey one wants to walk alone, so let’s walk right along with them to show them our support,” Fundraising Coordinator Lesley Kimble said. Her family has been impacted by dementia as her father was diagnosed with the illness several years ago.
“When someone is diagnosed with Dementia, Social Isolation becomes a huge issue, whether its because of stigma ( some people are embarrassed by their memory loss or worry about how people will react to them) or personality changes, or safety concerns or for a host of other reasons,” Kimble added.
In addition to signing up, organizers say you can also make a positive difference by taking a photo or video, uploading it to social media and including the hashtag #IGWalkForAlz.
There will also be a live broadcast on the Alzheimer Society Facebook page on Sunday, May 30 at 4 p.m. There, stories from walk participants across the country will be shared as they celebrate together.
For more information, the public is encouraged to email [email protected] or call 613-544-3078 ext 204.