Every 3 minutes, someone in Canada develops dementia. That means by the time you finish reading this page, another family will receive a diagnosis that changes everything.

Right now, 1 in 3 Canadians are impacted by dementia in some way – as a person living with dementia, a care partner, or someone who loves them.

And it’s only getting worse. By the end of this year, another 76,000 people will have been diagnosed with dementia in Canada. These are not just statistics. These are our parents, our grandparents, our friends, our neighbours. 

My family is no exception to these terrifying statistics. I started noticing some changes in Mom several years back, and as time went on things only got worse. I fought with the healthcare system for several years to get accurate and relevant cognitive testing, and after a second hospital admission within one month, they finally started to believe me when I said that something was wrong. 

In February of 2023 Mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and vascular dementia (mixed dementia). Mom has had a rapid decline and moved into Long Term Care in November of 2024. As of today, the changes are profound. She requires help with basic daily activities, her communication is significantly reduced and sometimes non-existent, she has difficulty walking and falls a lot, she doesn't know where she is, and she often forgets who I am. 

Throughout this process entire process, from before diagnosis to entering the late stages of dementia, the Alzheimer's Society has been there for me every step of the way. If it weren't for their education, programs, and support, I don't know how I would have coped so far. 

Dementia is a progressive and debilitating condition that is not a normal part of aging, and there is no cure. People living with dementia and their care partners need specialized resources, and those resources are being stretched thinner every day.

I’m participating in the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s in London on May 24, 2025 to help raise money on behalf of the Alzheimer Society, so they can meet the growing demand to provide programs and support to individuals and families to help manage the challenges of dementia.  

Thank you for whatever donation you can make. No matter how small or large, you are making a difference in the lives of people affected by dementia. Select the Donate Now button to make an online donation!

Thank you again for your generous commitment and support.

Lisa