Anything for Alzheimer’s spotlight: A tradition of tea and connection

“I want people living with Alzheimer's to know they’re still important.”

Marion Denton, an 81-year-old retired nurse, explains the philosophy behind a unique one-of-a-kind fundraiser she’s hosted for over a decade from her Victoria home. Every year, Marion holds a high tea to raise funds for people affected by dementia. Over time the gatherings have become more than meals; they have become a way to honour friends and family who have faced the dementia journey and to ensure no one feels alone.

Marion’s involvement with the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s Anything for Alzheimer’s fundraising program began in 2015, when her close friend Dorothy was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The two had worked side by side in community groups and shared a deep friendship for more than 50 years. Dorothy had already lost her father, a brother and a sister to the disease. While she faced her diagnosis with courage, Marion could see the isolation it brought. She promised Dorothy that she would continue to include her in her life and suggested they start fundraising to support others affected by dementia. Dorothy was happy to take part.

The first three years of their fundraising began as Apple Fest, an event held in Marion’s home with baking, bottle drives and handmade aprons for sale. By the third year, they published a recipe book featuring the best apple-themed dishes from their gatherings. When the pandemic put large events on hold, Marion adapted, turning Apple Fest into a series of smaller, carefully planned high teas.

Each tea is a five-course experience, with savoury bites, sandwiches, fresh bread, fruit dishes and desserts. Marion prepares every dish herself and makes sure the menu changes each time. Guests leave with a handmade parting gift, like potholders, tea towels or cloth bowl covers. These gifts are then kept by attendees as conversation starters in their own homes to raise awareness of dementia.

The teas run on a freewill donation basis, yet the generosity they inspire is remarkable. Even with just 12-16 guests, it’s not uncommon for Marion to raise more than $1,200 in a single afternoon. But for Marion, the true value lies in the atmosphere of inclusion they create.

“It’s good for those not on the Alzheimer’s journey to learn they don’t need to be afraid of people living with dementia,” she says. “And for those who are, it’s a relief to have people willing to support them.”

The gatherings also provide a chance to keep people connected. Marion always makes sure friends living with dementia are invited and included in activities, unless they are no longer able to attend. Seeing guests enjoy themselves, watching their families relax, and knowing everyone is in a welcoming space is one of Marion’s greatest rewards.

Her community has responded enthusiastically. Friends volunteer to bake, sew or serve. New guests hear about the teas through word of mouth and are eager to attend.

“People are always looking forward to their invitation,” Marion says.

For those considering hosting their own Anything for Alzheimer’s fundraiser, Marion’s advice is simple:

“Be organized, involve others and don’t be afraid to start small. Any idea is a good idea, even if you don’t raise lots of money. It still puts Alzheimer’s out there and people become aware of it for the first time.”

Marion hopes to keep the tradition alive for as long as possible. With most of her core group of helpers over 80, she’s encouraging her younger friends to get involved and continue the teas well into the future. She’s already planning the next event, jotting down recipe ideas and preparing this year’s take-home gift.

Get involved

When it comes to supporting people affected by dementia, community makes all the difference. That’s what makes Anything for Alzheimer’s so powerful – it gives British Columbians the chance to take what they love and turn it into a lasting impact. Whether it’s trivia, baking, running, painting or playing music, your passion can become a force for change. There’s no one-size-fits-all event and each fundraiser reflects the person behind it and the people they’re honouring. While there may be zero percent cure, we do have one hundred percent community: show up, get creative and build a legacy of care and connection. Start your own Anything for Alzheimer’s event, because your talents have the power to make a difference.

Funds raised through Anything for Alzheimer’s help provide vital support services, including the First Link® Dementia Helpline, which offers information, guidance and compassion to anyone facing the dementia journey. The helpline is toll-free and confidential and is available Monday to Friday:

• English: 1-800-936-6033 (9 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
• Cantonese and Mandarin: 1-833-674-5007 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
• Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu: 1-833-674-5003 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Learn more about Anything for Alzheimer’s and how you can host your event at anythingforalzheimers.ca.