2025 Walk for Alzheimer's Spokesperson - Cynthia

My name is Cynthia, and I am deeply honored to be your 2025 Walk spokesperson.

I want to tell you about my remarkable father Michael, who grew up on a fruit farm in St. Catharines. For over 40 years, he drove a coach across North America, earning countless yearly safe driving certificates. His greatest journey began when he met my mother Anna - the love of his life. After a whirlwind romance, they married and spent 59 beautiful years together, dedicating their lives to their children and grandchildren, family and friends.

After mom passed away, dad's world shattered. But his resilient spirit helped him rebuild his independence - cooking, cleaning, managing his finances, and staying active at the Seniors club. However, in his mid-80s, I noticed changes concerning. He struggled with neighbors' names and familiar things. Despite our family doctor's initial reluctance, we pushed for an assessment, which revealed vascular dementia. This diagnosis led us to the Alzheimer Society - a turning point in our journey.

The true value of the Alzheimer Society became crystal clear after dad went on an unexpected 'road trip' - he was missing for two days and was found in Montreal. While his doctor immediately suggested placing him in a locked long-term care facility, our Alzheimer Society caseworker became our advocate. They understood that someone doesn't go from independent living to requiring full-time care overnight. With their support and guidance, dad was able to continue living independently in his own home and even driving until he was 94.

From that moment on the Alzheimer Society became my best friend and I did NOT walk alone!!! The support and guidance of the Family counsellor were immeasurable. The caseworkers visited and assessed dad regularly and most importantly checked in with me regularly on how I was coping. They invited me and my family in to explain dad's diagnosis and what to expect and offered educational programs and support meetings which I have made great use of both in Niagara and where I live in Burlington. While this journey isn't easy I know I could NOT have done it without the compassion and dedication of Alzheimer Society of Niagara. They are always there checking in, following up and offering support when I didn't even know I needed it. They helped me understand what to expect, supported the caregiver and helped me keep dad safe, engaged and cared for.

That is why I walk- so that every family navigating dementia has the same support, hope and strength we were given. I hope you will join me at the IG wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s at Brock University, Guernsey Market on Sunday May 25th. Will you join me?  If you are unable to join us in person, you can still register and commit to walking 12,097 steps on your own- 1 step for every person living with dementia in Niagara. You can register online at www.alzgiving.ca/niagara 2025

Together, we can make a meaningful difference- by raising funds, spreading awareness, starting conversations and encouraging others to reach out FOR help!!It important to remember No one need face this journey alone. Alzheimer Society Niagara is there for YOU!

Join us at our IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at Brock University. Learn more by clicking here.