Two Richmond residents are being honored in a provincial fundraiser to support those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Husband and wife team Larry and Marilyn White will be the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s dedicated honorees for this year’s fundraising event for people affected by dementia.
The society is hosting the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s, where participants are encouraged to walk on their own or in small groups throughout May.
Participants can walk to honour people in their own lives who have been affected by dementia or they can walk to honor Richmond’s Larry and Marilyn.
Larry is the main caregiver for Marilyn, who was diagnosed with dementia in 2012, and both have been supported through the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s resources, reads the society’s media statement.
The Whites believe in being open about conversations surrounding dementia especially across their social circle, explains the society.
Larry recalled when a guest at one of their parties had pulled him aside to give “her condolences” about Marilyn.
“(Marilyn) had just told the whole crowd, unbeknownst to me, that she has Alzheimer’s because, for us, there is no stigma,” said Larry, adding that there is “no shame” to it.
“That’s one thing we agree on.”
According to Barbara Lindsay, Interim CEO of the Alzheimer Society of B.C., the COVID-19 pandemic has brought challenges especially to people living with dementia and their care partners.
“Fundraisers like the walk help enable the (Alzheimer) Society to continue providing support and resources, which are needed more than ever,” said Lindsay.
Funds raised from the walk event will help support the society’s programs and services for people in communities across B.C.
Participants can register for the walk by visiting walkforalzheimers.ca
-With files from Nono Shen/Richmond News
