Killarney's Services for Seniors and the Bayside Personal Care Home have partnered with the Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba to coordinate this morning's Alzheimer's 3rd party walk starting at 9:45 am.
"We worked together to raise awareness for this important cause," shares Regional Coordinator, Christine Jefferies. "We are excited to invite the community to join us on our walk in Killarney! Following our walk everyone is invited to join us for cookies and refreshments! Our walk will begin with registration at 9:45 am at the Bayside PCH and our walk will commence after 10:00 am - and is open to all ages!"
Jefferies says these community walks are important to raise awareness as many individuals are impacted and live with memory loss, and dementia including Alzheimer’s disease. It takes a community to care for individuals with dementia, and to support those care partners who are both an important part of our community.
"We feel it is imperative to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s and dementia so we can support those living with dementia, families, friends, and care partners. Alzheimer’s awareness and support is essential to ensuring those living with dementia are cared for and supported during their care journey."
This year's theme is 'Who are you walking for?'
"It’s more than just a walk," shares Jefferies, "it’s a chance to connect, support each other and have fun along the way. Some people come to honour and celebrate their family members, others come to connect with people going through similar situations, some even come to enjoy the day while supporting the community. It’s a chance to raise funding for programs that help support those living with dementia."
Money raised for the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s supports their First Link® program and other resources they offer for families impacted by dementia.
"Our First Link Client Support staff are here to listen to your unique situation and connect you with information, support and education as early as possible and throughout the progression of the disease," she adds.
The statistic for Manitobans is on the rise, and so the valuable resources the Alzheimer's Society provides is important for those who's personal or family dynamics have changed due to a dementia diagnosis.
Nine Manitobans are newly diagnosed with dementia every day. Over 20,300 Manitobans currently live with dementia and by 2050, it is expected to more than double to over 39,100. Sixty-two per cent of Manitobans are impacted by dementia because they have had a family member or close friend with the disease.
"We need your help to ensure these families receive the support they need in their community," says Jefferies. "This year, we’re looking to raise $350,000 this year. So, we invite you to invite your friends, family, neighbours or colleagues and let’s walk together to reach this goal!"
Please listen to more with Christine Jefferies below.
(Photos submitted by The Alzheimer's Society of Manitoba. Photos below are from the Wawanesa walk earlier this month)
Upcoming walks:
- June 19 in Killarney Bayside PCH
- June 20 in Wawanesa PCH
- June 23 at Rotary Villa in Brandon
The IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s is the largest Canadian fundraiser dedicated to helping an estimated 771,939 people in Canada living with dementia, their families, friends and care partners. You are not alone. Join the Walk to make a difference and to feel part of something larger.