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More than 50 area residents participated in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Bainbridge. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, participants walked as individuals and small groups on sidewalks, tracks and trails across Bainbridge on October 24 raising more than $20,000 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 $46,500 for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Bainbridge by December 31.

“The Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Bainbridge has generated incredible support,” said Kathy Varner, 2020 co-chair. “COVID-19, however, continues to challenge Bainbridge 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 Georgia Chapter has been offering education and support programs online including virtual caregiver yoga, support groups and art programs. In Georgia alone, there are more than 150,000 people living with the disease and 540,000 caregivers.

“We are seeing steady demand for our online education programs and support groups,” said Linda Davidson, Executive Director, Georgia Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. “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 Georgia families throughout the pandemic and beyond.”

Bainbridge 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 georgiawalk.org and clicking on Bainbridge.

“We are grateful to all of our volunteers, sponsors, participants and donors,” said Davidson. “We are all facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their commitment to Walk to End Alzheimer’s makes an enormous difference to families impacted by this devastating disease and advancing the science that will change the course of this disease for millions.”