Several hundred people gathered at Saskatoon’s River Landing on Saturday, May 24 for this year’s IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s, the fundraising event that supports research to end the disease.
The Humboldt and Muenster areas were well represented with the Korte families and Hofmann families fully present and accounted for. Each of the families has been impacted, losing members to Alzheimer's, most recently Muenster resident and volunteer community stalwart, James Korte. Janice Korte, with her group all adorned in t-shirts honouring James, said this was the first time in their 10 years of participation that all the children, spouses and grandchildren were able to be in attendance at the walk.
There were plenty of photo opportunities, along with a great mix of energizing tunes courtesy of local DJs. Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan members and associates and their army of volunteers led warm-ups, welcomed the participants, and put out a warm embrace for all in the fold.
Rebecca Snider, manager of major and planned gifts for the Alzheimer’s Society was one of those warm and welcoming individuals who was on hand to greet and support the walkers.
“It’s been a beautiful day for people to come out and build support for those affected by dementia,” said Snider as the walkers returned from their travels along the South Saskatchewan River bank. “There was really a vibe of hope and memory today. The day is all about raising funds to provide support, programs, services and education, and to fund research to support those affected by dementia in Saskatchewan.”
While the walk evokes emotions associated with those who face current challenges with Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia related disorders, and memories to those who have been lost, the event was far from somber. The spirit of hope and mutual understanding among those walkers led to a festive spirit – a celebration of life.
“Building that community of support is so important in bringing people together,” Snider affirms. “Stigma is a huge issue for people affected by dementia, so that’s part of some of the awareness we’re trying to build, along with a community that brings everyone together.”
As the event wrapped up, organizers announced that the total onsite and online donations during the Saskatoon walk amounted to $72,879, with expectations that the total could climb during the remainder of the afternoon.
Walks were also held on Saturday in Regina, Prince Albert, Swift Current, and Moosomin. The total funds generated from all the walks will be released a bit later in the summer.
People can donate to the cause year-round by using the donate button at walkforalzheimers.ca.