Alzheimer’s walk lends support

Dear editor: On behalf of the Alzheimer Society of B.C., I would like to thank Penticton residents for supporting the Investors Group Walk for Alzheimer’s on Sunday, May 6.

In more than 20 locations across the province, including here in Penticton, we helped ignite a movement to show that people affected by dementia should not have to walk alone.

Our ultimate vision is a world without dementia. That world begins with a more dementia-friendly society, where people affected by dementia are acknowledged, supported and included.

Walk participants help us towards this vision by ensuring that people in their community have access to the support and learning they need to live well with the disease, and by helping enable research about dementia.

Penticton’s event honoured Sharon Stone, who graciously gave the gift of her story. By giving a face and voice to dementia, Sharon has helped reduce stigma associated with the disease.

This event would have not been possible without the instrumental support of Penticton’s local volunteer organizing committee, led by Jan Setter. We also extend immense gratitude to our title sponsor Investors Group. We are thrilled by the recent announcement that Investors Group has committed to becoming the national title sponsor for the event Canada-wide.

So far, more than $850,000 has been raised. Our goal is to raise $1 million, and we would like to invite you to be a part of this. Donations for the event can be made online at www.walkforalzheimers.ca.

If you are living with or affected by dementia, please visit our local resource centre in person, call us at 250-493-8182.

Mary Beth Rutherford Support and education co-ordinator Alzheimer Society of B.C., Penticton