A sunny sky and strong turnout helped turn this year’s Walk for Alzheimer’s into something more than just a fundraiser. It became a day of connection, compassion, and community strength. For Nicole McDonald, senior manager of Dementia-Friendly Communities with the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, and Pam Anderson local office coordinator, the energy of the crowd spoke volumes.
A powerful community moment
McDonald reflects on the strong turnout and sense of unity at the event, crediting local support and enthusiasm for making the day so memorable.
“This was an incredible turnout. I mean, Pam did such a good job having only recently started with the Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba in the Portage office,” says McDonald.
She emphasizes how quickly the community has embraced the work being done in the area.
“The support that we saw today is kind of immeasurable in a short amount of time,” adds McDonald.
That feeling of togetherness carried through the walk and beyond, as people stayed to eat, laugh, and connect. Attendees shared stories, formed new bonds, and stuck around enjoying lunch and live entertainment.
“We had smiles on our faces during the walk. I heard from a few people that they met people they didn’t know,” says Anderson.
Lifting up caregivers
Among the many voices at the walk was Marian Switzer, this year’s Alzheimer’s Walk ambassador and a longtime Portage resident. Switzer has walked the caregiving journey alongside her husband Lynn, who now lives in long-term care.
“It’s sad, because I don’t want to be here. But I have to be, because I’m aiming to be the best caregiver and that’s hard to do,” notes Switzer.
Switzer says dementia and Alzheimer's change not only the lives of those diagnosed, but also the lives of their families. She believes strongly in the value of connecting with others who understand that experience firsthand.
“We have our support group there, which no money can pay for. I can’t say enough about it,” says Switzer.
She continues to advocate for open dialogue among caregivers.
“I think that caregivers can be very helpful to each other, and that’s what we do in our support group,” adds Switzer.
More than just a walk
McDonald says the atmosphere at this year’s walk felt more unified than ever before.
“Everyone was cohesive, and it was a community, making it all feel like we are all connected” says McDonald.
That sense of connection carries forward into local programming. The Minds in Motion program returns this fall, offering an eight-week session for people with mild to moderate dementia and their care partners. It includes light exercise, coffee chats, and games, and takes place Wednesday afternoons beginning mid-September.
Also planned is a local viewing party for the society’s research forum on Sept. 18 at Herman Prior, and McDonald hopes to see interest grow in dementia-friendly initiatives.
“If you are interested in understanding what it means to become a dementia friendly partner, reach out to us and have those conversations,” says McDonald.
For caregivers seeking support, Anderson also runs a monthly in-person group on the first Monday afternoon of each month.
“It’s a time where care partners come together to support and hear from each other. Some of the challenges and some of the good stuff that they can share along the journey,” says Anderson.
The comfort of connection
For Switzer, caregiving isn’t just about responsibility; it’s about presence and love. While it’s hard to face an empty half of the bed at home, she says those daily visits still matter deeply.
“He holds out his arms every time, so that’s important,” says Switzer.
And the familiar faces at Lions Prairie Manor, many of whom were once her students or her husband’s, bring much-needed warmth to a difficult situation.
“That gives you a warm, cuddly feeling” continues Switzer.
Whether it’s a walk, a support group, or a friendly chat over coffee. Switzer, Anderson and McDonald agree when the community shows up, it changes everything.
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