Brookline Resident Cycles To End Alzheimer’s For 9th Year

Press release from the Alzheimer's Association:

June 24, 2020

BROOKLINE, MA – Leigh Feldman of Brookline is cycling to raise awareness and critical funds for Alzheimer’s research. Feldman is pedaling for a purpose in honor of her mother as part of the Alzheimer’s Association Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter’s 2020 Ride to End Alzheimer’s.

“My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at the age of 65. My whole family couldn't believe this was happening to her at such a young age. She couldn't either. We were all devastated,” said Feldman.

The 24th annual Ride to End ALZ has transitioned to a virtual event to fit social distancing guidelines amid the COVID-19 pandemic. During the month of June, also recognized as Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, hundreds of cyclists are choosing a date to hop on their bike for a socially distant ride while sharing their pictures and stories on social media to raise funds and awareness to advance Alzheimer’s research. While the ride day experience looks different this year, Feldman remains committed to the cause as she cycles for her 9th year.

“It makes you feel like part of a community who is going through the same kind of experiences that I am. We're all trying to do our part in raising awareness but doing something fun at the same time,” said Feldman.

Ninety percent of the funds raised during the Ride to End ALZ are given to research restricted grants for Alzheimer’s and other dementias. The remaining ten percent of the proceeds support the Alzheimer’s Association’s efforts to provide support and resources to local families impacted by the disease.

“The funds raised by our dedicated cyclists for the Ride to End Alzheimer’s fully support the Association’s mission while moving us closer to our vision of a world without Alzheimer’s disease,” shared Charlene Bemis, Director of Special Events for the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire. “Since the event began 24 years ago, the Ride to End Alzheimer’s has raised over $6.9 million.”

Registration is still open for the 2020 Virtual Ride to End ALZ. To register for the event, visit www.ridetoendalzheimers.org.

About the Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's®. Visit www.alz.org/MANH or call 800.272.3900.

This press release was produced by the Alzheimer's Assocation. The views expressed here are the author's own.