Alzheimer society presents awards

Dr. Jackalina VanKampen is the 2017 receipient of the Dementia Friends Leadership Award, handed out at the Alzheimer Society of P.E.I.’s recent annual luncheon.

“Jackalina’s commitment to community outreach is evidenced by her volunteer work in judging school science fairs and her enthusiast engagement with BIOAlliance and Alzheimer Society of P.E.I., in organizing an annual summer public lecture on brain health,” said Dr. Denis Kay, chief scientific officer of Neurodyn.

The Leadership Award was established in 2002 to encourage, support and inspire partnerships and excellence in dementia care. This award is the highest honour presented by the Alzheimer Society of PEI. It recognizes a person or organization who exemplifies excellence in person-centered care while promoting programs and services for all those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Corrine Hendricken-Eldershaw, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of P.E.I., said VanKampen continues to strive for the best information in the research field.

“Dr. VanKampen truly supports and inspires our motto: Help for today, hope for tomorrow,” said Hendricken-Eldershaw. “Her love and passion for her work is greatly respected and admired.”

The Alzheimer Society of P.E.I. also made a few other important recognitions during the Dementia Friends luncheon. Weldon Boone accepted a fiveyear contribution for his volunteer work. As well, the estates of Catherine Buelle and Kelvin Dowling were acknowledged for having made generous donations in the past year.

The Alzheimer Society of PEI is the leading health charity working province wide to improve the quality of life for Islanders affected by Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias through education and support, while advancing the search for a cause and a cure.