Walk to end Alzheimer’s held virtually

CLARK COUNTY — Participants in the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s followed a different format this year due to the pandemic. Held on Aug. 29, people walked through their own neighborhoods and communities across Southwest Washington. Walkers were able to view an interactive online opening and Promise Garden Ceremony on their tablets and computers before the walk started. So far, the Southwest Washington community has raised more than $60,000 of the $150,000 goal. Fundraising is going on until Dec. 31. “The pandemic is changing how we walk, but it doesn’t change the need to walk. This year, more than ever, we need to come together to support all those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. With the dollars raised, the Alzheimer’s Association can continue to provide care and support to families during these difficult times while also advancing critical research toward methods of treatment and prevention,” said Wendy Vizek, vice president of constituent events at the Alzheimer’s Association. “Alzheimer’s is not taking a hiatus during COVID-19 and neither are we,” said Tracy Morgan, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association Oregon & Southwest Washington Chapter. “Many of our constituents are at higher risk when it comes to COVID-19, and we know that our volunteers and participants appreciate our commitment to keeping all involved healthy and safe.” More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States. Visit alz.org/walk and look for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s Vancouver to make a donation.