Erin & Geoffrey Bird - Vancouver Honourees
2025 IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's, presented by Go Auto
Erin Bird first noticed changes in 2015. Having worked her way from assistant to HR professional in a prestigious law firm, Erin always knew exactly what needed to get done and how. But when she found herself having to repeat tasks two or three times just to get it right, she knew something was up.
Erin kept things to herself, not even letting her husband, Geoffrey, know when she spoke to a doctor about her concerns. Another year passed before things came to the surface.
“I'd noticed a number of things around the house: schedules being forgotten, lost keys or glasses which seemed easy to find,” Geoffrey says. “It coincided with my father’s dementia diagnosis. Similar things were happening in my parents’ household, so it raised a bit of a red flag.”
The Birds initially received mixed messages regarding Erin’s diagnosis, making it difficult to plan. After numerous appointments, referrals, tests and scans over years, Erin received a conclusive diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease in 2021.
Erin retired and suddenly had plenty of free time. Although still capable in many ways, cognitive changes prevented the couple from doing some activities they’d once enjoyed together. Geoffrey found himself pondering ways to engage with Erin’s diagnosis on a deeper level while also spending time with her.
Geoffrey had recently started a Master of Arts degree in Photograpy and decided to turn his lens of focus inwards, drawing inspiration from their experience with dementia as inspiration for his projects, which he used to raise $10,000 for the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
Geoffrey’s photography offers real insight into the experience of living with dementia, something to which a growing number of people can relate.
“A stranger reached out to me on Instagram and shared how the project had resonated with her because her father is in a similar situation,” Geoffrey says. “It’s been unexpected and rewarding!”
Geoffrey and Erin also joined the Lived Experience Partner Program, which provides opportunities for people living with dementia and caregivers to support the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s mission by sharing their experiences and insights.
“We’re a part of something that’s allowing for voices to be heard,” Geoffrey says.
Geoffrey and Erin feel fortunate to be well-supported by their family and friends. Their daughter, Olivia, has also taken on a caregiving role. Erin’s mother provides meals and support and when Erin was first diagnosed, her younger sister, Lanie, enrolled in a program through the Society so she could learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and continue to be a supportive person in her sister’s life. Erin’s friends have also shown their support and continue to include her in activities and events.
“You know, there are struggles along the way, but there is also lots of joy,” Geoffrey says.
Turning to Erin, he asks, “I think we still laugh a lot, don't we?”
With a smile, Erin agrees. “We do!”
“You have to embrace those little moments of joy,” Geoffrey adds. “And carry on laughing when you can.”
Join Erin & Geoffrey on Sunday, May 25 for the Vancouver IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's.