Undeterred from the one-two-three punch of the COVID pandemic, unhealthy air blanketing Edmonds from wildfires, and a sprinkle of rain, Edmonds Landing residents turned out in force Friday for the annual Walk To End Alzheimers.
Sponsored by the national Alzheimers Association, the nationwide event brings together people whose lives have been touched by Alzheimers and who want to make a difference in helping to find a cure.
“This is the fifth year Edmonds Landing has participated in the event,” explained Victoria Cole, marketing director at Edmonds Landing. “In past years we’ve walked the entire block to show our support, but with the pandemic and the bad air, we opted for a less strenuous – but no less enthusiastic – event.”
Residents donned their purple event t-shirts and gathered in the lobby on Friday afternoon to show support before marching out to the sidewalk to make a stand, wave at passing cars, and show their support. “We were careful to maintain social distancing by having each participant hold on to a purple rope at 6-foot intervals,” added Cole.
While not as elaborate as in past years, Friday’s event set a new record for fundraising.
“As of the end of today’s march we collected $3,675, an all-time high for us in this event – more donations keep coming in,” remarked Cole. “The best part is that the Alzheimer’s Association provides a matching donation, doubling our effectiveness.”
— Story and photos by Larry Vogel
It is very nice to see these lovely elderly people getting some exercise. But I am sorry to say this but…I really feel as if All of this walking around and marching about this and that. (Good Causes I totally Agree) but…These bandanas are not good protection… The smoke and toxicity of the air from the smoke was extremely high that day and all were advised to stay out of it. I think this is harmful behavior out doing marches in a level of toxicity compared with China on a bad day! I also think due to the fact our numbers are up…That maybe just maybe people do not need to be having marches of any sort until our cases go way down…At this time I would expect inside dining, as they have been talking about on the news is not to great for you! Do what you want with that. I am not your boss as I do not have to eat there. However, I do have to go to grocery stores, I would like to see less action in the WHOLE city of Edmonds. Just Stay Home or walk in your own neighborhoods. If you will not mask your children… keep their bikes in your driveway and in front of your house. ! The sidewalks were not built for bicycles. They were built for citizens to walk down. I know this is harsh. I care about all of you and your boredom…But in this case we must suffer to succeed. As we are going we are not going to succeed. Now if you wish you may reply with your disagreement of my thoughts? I think a constructive conversation is a good thing. Thanks.
Very nice picture of happy seniors feeling like they are involved in helping a good cause. Morale must be up and I know how attentive Edmonds Landing with their residents and would not do anything to jeopardize their health. Well done Victoria and team.