If you can keep up with the Joneses, you could help raise funds to help people with dementia.
The Jones Gang is one of many teams that will be lacing up their sneakers in support of the Alzheimer’s Society of Simcoe County. The 23rd Annual IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s is taking place throughout the month of May, with this year’s theme being to walk 10,006 steps for 10,006 people living with dementia county-wide.
“My mother was diagnosed when she was 80. The next 10 years were rough,” said Jones, who lives in Wasaga Beach. “She passed away at 101. The last six years, we just prayed everyday.”
“It’s a horrible disease. I’m sure everybody has someone in their lives with this dreaded illness. It’s very sad,” she said.
The family team, led by Jones, has nine members from all over Simcoe County, and while they might not be able to physically walk together because of COVID-19, they’re looking forward to walking apart while raising money together for a cause that is near to their hearts.
Jones herself starting doing the walk last year, after many years of donating her time as a volunteer.
She says her team has raised $300 so far, and are hoping more pledges will come in. The total fundraising goal this year for the walk is $75,000. Funding raised goes toward support services, education, public awareness, and social recreational programs to persons living with dementia, their care partners, families, and the public at large.
“These people need support. The society does so much,” said Jones. “I think Alzheimer’s is one of the worst robbers of life.”
Laura Lynn Bourassa, manager of education and support programs with the society, says that year over year, the society serves more and more clients.
“COVID-19 has left many persons living with dementia and their care partners, (who are) already at higher risk for social isolation, further isolated and on their own,” said Bourassa. “Education, support and recreation programs are key to contributing to this sense of wellness and to alleviating the isolation that many are feeling.”
The Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County has been serving the region since 1985 to ensure people living with dementia get the care and services they need to improve their quality of life.
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