Jessie Pearson ’23 was inspired by the charitable work her Maryland-based camp friend Sophie Rubin accomplished in honor of her grandmother, “Nanny,” who passed away after a battle with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. Rubin began a group called "Nanny's Nation" that successfully raised money and awareness for the disease through walks organized by the ALS Association. Pearson thought the service effort would be well received by the Bolles community and endeavored to bring “Nanny’s Nation” to Jacksonville this school year.

“I decided to bring Nanny’s Nation to Florida to continue to support people that suffered like [Sophie’s] grandmother,” Pearson said. “I am thankful for the people who have joined my club and are ready to help make a difference.”

Pearson said the mission of the Bolles club is to provide knowledge and educate others about the horrors of ALS and to fundraise and support families who suffer from the disease. Pearson is the president of the club, and its officers are: Georgia Avert, vice president; Sophia Stromberg, secretary; Jackson Brill, treasurer; and Anna Turner, technology officer.

The club’s inaugural Nanny’s Nation Walk for a Cure was held January 17 at Bolles. Participants were led on a campus walk with music and celebrated at the finish with snacks and drinks. Students donated $20 to the organization to be part of the walk and received a Nanny’s Nation t-shirt and face mask. The club raised more than $500 for ALS.

For photos from the event, visit our online gallery.

Pearson said she has a few ideas for club fundraising this spring. She also is encouraging club members to attend the National ALS walk in Jacksonville this April.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, swallow and breathe. The life expectancy of a person with ALS averages two to five years from the time of diagnosis.