When Elaine Cunningham was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2017, her husband Kenn’s life was forever changed. But instead of letting the disease define their future, Kenn chose to fight back—not just for Elaine, but for every family affected by Alzheimer’s.

Today, Kenn is a passionate advocate, volunteer, and fundraiser for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Sonoma-Marin. His story is one of resilience, love, and the power of community.

Elaine’s legacy as a magical teacher

For 20 years, Elaine was a beloved kindergarten teacher—known for her energy, warmth, and the joy she brought to every classroom. “She was singing and dancing five days a week,” Kenn said. “She was the most requested teacher at that school. Some people called her magical.”

Even after retirement in 2012, Elaine continued to give back, volunteering as a teacher’s aide. But in 2017, signs of memory loss began to emerge—culminating in a moment when she became lost on her way to school, a drive she had made for over a decade. After medical testing, Elaine was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

The hidden cost of caregiving

Kenn quickly learned how emotionally and financially demanding caregiving can be. Despite support from their adult children, he needed professional help to care for Elaine. “I’m spending $55,000 a year for a caregiver,” Kenn shared. “I’m still working full-time because I need the income.”

Kenn’s experience reflects a harsh reality: dementia caregivers face nearly double the out-of-pocket costs compared to non-dementia caregivers.

Balancing work and care

Kenn isn’t alone. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 60% of Alzheimer’s caregivers are employed while providing care— 57% have to modify their work schedules or reduce hours due to care responsibilities.

Fortunately, Kenn found support through his employer, Exchange Bank, which offered him flexibility and understanding. But the partnership soon went beyond the workplace.

From employee to advocate: bringing the bank to Walk

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease.

In 2022, the Alzheimer’s Association approached Exchange Bank about sponsoring the Sonoma-Marin Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Knowing Kenn’s story, the bank invited him to be part of the conversation.

Kenn seized the opportunity—and helped secure a $5,000 sponsorship, with Exchange Bank becoming the event’s official Check-In Sponsor. “We wanted to meet everyone who came through,” Kenn said. “The registration table was the perfect place to be.”

When the bank’s president attended Walk, he was struck by the sense of community. Over 1,500 participants gathered at Sonoma State University, united in hope. “That moment made all the difference,” Kenn said. “Seeing the turnout—it changes how you think about Alzheimer’s.”

In 2025, Exchange Bank will return with a $10,000 sponsorship, continuing to welcome walkers at check-in.

Kenn’s growing impact

Inspired by the Association’s mission, Kenn joined the Walk Committee. He now helps secure sponsorships from local businesses and encourages personal donations through his Walk team, Cunningham Crew. “I love it when a company says yes,” he said. “But even if they can’t sponsor, I invite them to support our team. Last year, I raised $1,000 on my page alone.”

Together with his fellow Committee Members, Kenn has helped raise more than $82,000 in sponsorships—a remarkable accomplishment rooted in personal purpose.

A Walk that builds community

Kenn Cunningham didn’t choose this journey—but he’s choosing to make it meaningful. Every step he takes honors Elaine and uplifts the more than 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s today. “We’re all supporting each other—in our own way,” Kenn said. “That’s the beauty of this Walk. It’s not just a fundraiser—it’s a community.”

You can join Kenn and his team, Cunningham Crew, at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Sonoma-Marin on October 4, 2025 at Sonoma State University in Rohnert Park. Not in Sonoma or Marin Counties? Find a Walk near you at alz.org/walk.