Trent Community Stays Active in Support of Alzheimer Society
Hiking, biking, and gardening were all on the table for this year’s Walk for Alzheimer’s – the first ever to take place remotely and virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The local Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland & Haliburton had planned to hold the annual walk at the Trent Athletics Centre, as it has the past several years, but they had to quickly switch gears to transform the fundraiser into something that could allow safe participation from people’s homes, backyards, and local trails.
The Trent Centre for Aging & Society (TCAS) jumped at the chance to tap into its national and global network of scholars and supporters and invited them to get involved, either by sponsoring the team or by committing to doing something active for the event on Sunday, May 31. Over 35 people joined TCAS for the virtual event, and the team surpassed its $1000 fundraising goal.
“Our team’s participation this year was the best yet – probably because our members and supporters could get involved regardless of where they live. We had donations and photos coming in from across the Kawarthas, Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, and even Austria,” remarked TCAS coordinator and fundraising team captain, Sylvia Dick.
Even frigid lake water couldn’t stop Neil Emery, Trent University’s VP Research & Innovation, and TCAS advisory board member, from jumping in to support the TCAS team. He shared a picture after a 2km swim in Haliburton.
The annual Walk for Alzheimer’s is Canada’s biggest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias and it takes place in more than 400 communities across the country. Funds raised go towards local programs and services that improve the quality of life for people living with dementia, their families, and their care team.
Learn more about the local Alzheimer’s Society and the Trent Centre for Aging & Society.
Posted on June 1, 2020