Bruce was known for his ability to talk to and connect with anyone, often cracking jokes and causing groups of strangers to smile or laugh. He was fiercely proud of his children and grandchildren, and told stories of them to anyone who would listen. He and his loving wife Sonia loved traveling with trailer in tow, especially to Vancouver to visit with his son's family. He often barbequed at home for his daughter's family, and always joined family celebrations.

Bruce grew up in Lethbridge with his parents, older brother, and nearby cousins, uncles, and aunts. He spent 36 years as an air traffic controller, first in Calgary and then in Edmonton. He lived in Sherwood Park, Devon, and Edmonton, where he proudly cheered on the Oilers and Blue Jays.

Alzheimer's has stripped most of Bruce's memories, his enjoyment of hobbies and interests, and most of his abilities to just function in day to day activities. Thankfully he doesn't always remember that he doesn't remember, and explains the gaps in memory and understanding as "old fogeyism". He still sends random texts or makes random phone calls to his wife and daughter, and loves to tell his nurses about his "Favourite Wife", "Favourite Daughter", etc. who come to visit. (Of course we are his only wife and daughter, but that is one of the small ironies he still understands and is happy to share!)

We love to spend time with Bruce, appreciating what he is able to do and understand in the moment, and feeling such love and compassion for him as he needs more and more help. I wish this disease didn't exist and my sweet dad could enjoy life the way he should be able to in his later years. I want nothing more than for a cure to be found so that no one else has to watch their loved ones decline into a shell of who they once were. Even if you are unable to donate, hopefully you will find something in Bruce's story that somehow benefits someone else, whether in advocating for families dealing with Alzheimer's or even just taking the time to show a little compassion for someone who may be struggling with all the challenges of watching a loved one's decline. 

We are participating in the Walk this year because dementia is the fastest growing healthcare issue of our time. As more and more people are impacted there is an increasing demand for Alzheimer Society programs and services. Services that make all the difference in the way that people are able to manage the disease and live life to the fullest.

Please donate today and help us reach our fundraising goal! To do so, select the Donate Now button, or select the name of a team member to sponsor them individually.

By supporting our team, you are helping the Alzheimer Society continue to make a difference in the lives of people affected by dementia.

Thank you again for your generous commitment and support!