2019 Pauline Spatz Leadership Award recipient: George Allen
The 2019 Recipient of the Pauline Spatz Leadership Award is George Allen, of Saint John, NB.
Do you know someone like George that gives their time, energy and resources to make their community a better place? Consider nominating them for the Pauline Spatz Leadership Award.
The third annual Pauline Spatz Leadership Award was presented to George Allen of Saint John, NB. Pictured here is George Allen with Mark Harris and Rebecca Porter of the Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick Saint John Resource Centre.
George first came to know the Society in 2013 when his dear wife of over 70 years, Joan, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Upon her diagnosis, George immediately took it upon himself to learn where he could find information and support that would help them along their journey.
Since this time, George has become a dedicated supporter of the Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick. He participates actively in programs, not only by attending them, but by sharing his personal experience with others as a way to support them and to educate people about the disease.
A former member of the Historical Society, George also presents at the Memory Cafe in Saint John on life in the 1940s and 1950s, in attempt to connect and reminisce with families and individuals affected by dementia.
George is passionate about awareness around the disease and strives to make a difference in the lives of those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Always ready to share the story of his dementia journey, George participated in a consultation session to help inform the provincial Dementia Strategy and Action Plan.
George has also shared his story on many occasions to help bring awareness to the disease. He has done several media interviews, spoken with the Dalhousie Medical School, and even shared his story as a part of our Awareness Campaign in 2018.