Walks for Memories take steps to support people living with dementia

About $14,000 was raised by 50 fundraisers at last week’s walk in Quinte West. Top fundraisers Leslie MacDonald and Maia Heissler raised more than $3,000. Walks are being held in Picton, Bancroft and Belleville this weekend.

Every step taken this weekend by participants in three Walk for Memories events will raise both funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s care, support and education. Held annually in more than 65 communities across the province, the event calls on participants and supporters of all ages to help support people living with dementia.

There are about 2,500 people in the area with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. Those numbers are expected to increase dramatically over the next decade. The society helps people discuss their situations, make new friends and enjoy social time. The society also offers programs and supports to help caregivers care for themselves and for someone with dementia.

Picton’s event is set for Saturday, Jan. 31 at Prince Edward Collegiate Institute. Walkers and supporters welcome from 1-3 p.m. If you are unable to attend but would like to support the cause, click on the link, or call the PEC office number below.
A walk will also be held at North Hastings High School in Bancroft, beginning at 10 a.m. and on Sunday, Feb. 1 at the Bay View Mall in Belleville, beginning at 9:30 a.m.

The Alzheimer Society Walk for Memories will still take place  Sunday despite the work disruption between the CCAC and the Ontario Nurses Association.
“We do not know if there will be a picket line at the entrances to the Bay View Mall on Sunday, but our experience today with the picket line is that there have been no obstructions to traffic,” said Laura Hare, executive director of the Alzheimer Society of Belleville Hastings. “We know that members of the ONA are aware of the importance of the Walk for Memories, as a fundraiser for the Alzheimer Society, and we expect that walk participants will have no difficulties in arriving at the mall on Sunday morning.
“The Alzheimer Society is hopeful that the labour issues are resolved quickly – not just because of the Walk for Memories- but also that services through the CCAC are made available to families we serve as soon as possible.”

About $14,000 was raised by 50 fundraisers at last week’s walk in Quinte West. Top individual fundraisers Leslie MacDonald and Maia Heissler raised more than $3,000.

At the conclusion of Picton’s event, will be the draw for  An Evening to Remember.

Click here to ‘LIKE’ the Alzheimer Society on Facebook

Alzheimer Society of Prince Edward County
90 King Street,
Corner of King & Paul
Picton, ON K0K 2T0
Tel: (613 )476-2085
Fax: (613) 476-1537
E-mail: linda.steacy@alzheimerhpe.ca