Walking with Purpose
Carole Young has been involved in the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's since its earliest days in Sydney
For Carole Young, supporting the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia is more than a yearly commitment — it’s a personal journey shaped by family, resilience, and a lifelong dedication to helping others.
Carole has been involved in the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s since its earliest days in Sydney, Cape Breton. Her connection to the cause began in the late 1990s, when her father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. At the time, her mother came across an article about the first local walk and encouraged Carole to get involved.
With only a few weeks to prepare, Carole rallied every bit of support she could find.
“Between family and connections, we raised over $6,000 that first year,” she recalls.
The following year, she set an ambitious goal — and surpassed it — raising $12,000. That momentum carried forward, turning her participation into a meaningful and long-standing tradition.
The walk isn’t just a fundraiser for her; it’s also a meaningful way to connect with people in her community.
“What I love most is connecting with people,” she says. “You see others there and realize, they’re going through this too. It creates a space where people feel safe to talk, to learn, and to support each other.”
Carole’s connection to Alzheimer’s extends beyond her father. With her brother recently diagnosed, she has seen up close the emotional and practical toll on care partners, particularly her sister-in-law, who now leans on local support programs.
Over the years, Carole has seen how funds raised through the walk directly benefit the local community — supporting programs, providing educational sessions and more.
“When you tell people that donations stay here, helping families right in Cape Breton, it makes it easier to ask for support,” she explains.
Her own family’s journey also shaped her understanding of caregiving. When her father’s condition progressed, the family came together to support their mother with the transition of moving him into long-term care.
Despite the challenges, Carole remembers the love that surrounded him.
“The experience made me realize how important it is to talk about these things, to plan ahead, and to support one another,” she says.
Through it all, Carole’s commitment to her community has remained constant. Whether through the walk, local initiatives, or other volunteer efforts, she continues to give back, just as her parents did before her.
When asked why others should get involved in the walk, her answer is simple:
“If you’re dealing with Alzheimer’s in any way, you’re not alone. The walk helps you see that. It connects you to people, to resources, and to hope.”
As the next walk approaches, Carole will once again be there — walking not just in memory of her father, but in support of every family navigating the realities of Alzheimer’s disease.
Join Carole and your community in walking this May. The Sydney Walk takes place on Sunday, May 31, at the Cape Breton University soccer field.
Visit www.walkns.ca to learn more and to register as an individual or with a team.