On behalf of the Alzheimer Society of B.C., I would like to thank Penticton residents for their instrumental support of the 2019 IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s, and invite them to become involved with the event in 2020.
Penticton was one of 21 communities that came together on Sunday, May 5 to honour and remember people who have been affected by dementia. Penticton residents raised more than $24,000, which contributed to the more than $1.1 million raised across the province. Without this funding the Alzheimer Society of B.C. would not be able to deliver local programs and services and support research into the causes of and cures for dementia.
Penticton’s event honoured Klaus and Trudy Kotzian, who graciously gave the gift of their story to help reduce stigma associated with the disease and let other people on the dementia journey know they are not alone.
On the ground, each event is organized by a dedicated volunteer committee, without whom the event would not be possible. Huge thanks to Penticton’s committee, led by Abby Villenueve and to our sponsors.
You can help us build on the incredible success of this event next year. We are currently recruiting motivated volunteers to organize and implement the 2020 event—a variety of organizing committee roles are available. To learn more or to apply for a volunteer role, visit alzheimer.ca or contact Matt Brooks at mbrooks@alzheimerbc.org or 604-681-6530.
Thank you once more to everyone who contributed to the success of this event. Together, we make memories matter.
If you have questions about dementia, please call the First Link Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936- 6033. Support is also available in Cantonese, Mandarin and Punjabi. Visit alzheimerbc.ca to learn more.
Maribeth Friesen
Manager, regional services, Northern and Interior Regions Alzheimer Society of B.C.