I have worked with people living with various types of dementia on and off since I started volunteering at a downtown care home back in the late 1990's. My experience there and success being patient, kind, and in-the-moment while I helped the Music Therapist and Recreation Therapists provid life-enriching programs inspired me to change careers to become a Recreation Therapist. Although I worked with many other populations, the greatest need in BC and across Canada is for dementia care support, including complex care for people living with disabling chronic conditions, usually concurrent or dementia-related.
While I worked with many families going through the trauma of watching their loved one decline, suffer fear and physical pains associated with dementia, and often pass away well before their time, I never fully understood it until I too became a caregiver for my beloved Auntie Jane, and then, shortly after, watched my brilliant and also beloved "fairy godmother", Pat, decline in physical and cognitive health and pass away as a result of Vascular Dementia, a type of dementia that can lead to or be combined with Alzheimer's. Another very close family member has just received the same diagnosis but does not want me to share it with the world as they are still adjusting to the news.
So, on Sunday, May 31, I’m participating in the Alzheimer Society of BC and Yukon’s largest fundraising event – the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s, presented by Go Auto. The Walk provides an opportunity for communities to take action to change the future for the more than 85,000 British Columbians living with dementia and the people who care for them.
Funds raised will help provide in-person and virtual programs, services and education for families facing dementia, providing the support they need to maintain the best possible quality of life throughout the progression of the disease, as well as enabling critical research to change the future of the disease.
With your help, the Alzheimer Society of BC and Yukon can continue its vital work. Please consider donating in support of my walk and joining me on the St. Jude's Anglican Home team to help find a cure and support those living with the disease and their caregivers.
The weather is supposed to be "a mix of sun and cloud", perfect for a walk on the seawall. Come join us and/or make a pledge today.