Roanoke, Virginia – More than 325 area residents participated in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Roanoke. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, participants walked as individuals and small groups on sidewalks, tracks and trails across the greater Roanoke region on November 7, raising more than $59,573 to support the care, support and research programs of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Due to COVID-19 Walk participants are not fundraising in person and continue to raise funds to reach the goal of $157,335 for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Roanoke by December 31.
“The Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Roanoke has generated incredible support,” said Casey Halstead, event chair. “COVID-19, however, continues to challenge Roanoke area families impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. We are continuing fundraising efforts through the end of the year to support local care and support programs and to accelerate important research.”
“The Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Roanoke has generated incredible support,” said Casey Halstead, event chair. “COVID-19, however, continues to challenge Roanoke area families impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. We are continuing fundraising efforts through the end of the year to support local care and support programs and to accelerate important research.”
Since the pandemic hit in March, the Central and Western Virginia Chapter has been offering education and support programs online. In Virginia alone, there are more than 150,000 people living with the disease and 467,000 caregivers.
“We are seeing steady demand for our online education programs and support groups,” said Marie Kolendo, Sr. Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association – Central & Western Virginia Chapter. “Alzheimer’s can be a terribly isolating disease even under normal circumstances. Families tell us that being able to connect with us during the current pandemic has been a lifeline. We intend to continue to be there and support Roanoke area families throughout the pandemic and beyond.”
Roanoke area residents who were unable to participate in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s but still want to make a donation can do so by visiting alz.org/roanokewal
