1,600 Calgarians Raise $400K for Alzheimer’s Awareness Today

UPDATE: Today, approximately 1,600 Calgarians braved less-than-ideal weather to participate in a fundraising walk and run at Prince’s Island Park, raising over $400,000 for Alzheimer’s awareness. The event aims to highlight the profound impact dementia has on the community.

Alzheimer Calgary’s executive director, Barbara Ferguson, emphasized the importance of conveying that a dementia diagnosis, while challenging, does not prohibit individuals from leading fulfilling lives. “A dementia diagnosis can be challenging, but we also feel people can still live a meaningful life even with a diagnosis of dementia,” Ferguson stated.

The organization aims to foster inclusivity for those affected by dementia, encouraging participation in community events, coffee shop outings, and social gatherings. “It’s vital we get messaging out because we want people with dementia to feel included in their community,” Ferguson added.

The statistics are staggering: more than 20,000 people in the Calgary area currently live with dementia. For every diagnosed individual, an estimated 10 to 12 additional people—family, friends, and neighbors—are significantly impacted. Ferguson warned that these numbers will surge, predicting that cases will double in the next ten years and potentially triple by 2050.

“This issue is going to have a profound impact on our community,” she affirmed. The urgent need for awareness and understanding surrounding dementia is more critical than ever.

For those looking to support Alzheimer Calgary or learn more about the ongoing efforts to combat the stigma surrounding dementia, further information is available on their website.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the community rallies together to support those affected by dementia.