The sun shone for Niverville’s first community Walk for Alzheimer’s on June 14, hosted by Niverville Senior Services at the Golden Friendship Circle. Wendy Schettler, Chief Executive Officer of the Alzheimer’s Society, and Leona Doerksen, Regional Coordinator, were guest speakers.

According to Schettler, these walks are occurring all over the province and she was delighted by the turnout. Niverville was one of five communities walking on June 14.

Doerksen gave her personal testimony of the gradual but escalating impact that the onset of Alzheimer’s has on a family, and highlighted the ways in which the Alzheimer’s Society assists and supports families every step of the way. 

Justina Penner, Resource Coordinator for Niverville Services to Seniors, read the poem “Two Mothers Remembered” by Joann Snow Duncanson.

Approximately 50 marchers enjoyed a hot dog lunch with a cookie and drink, donated by local businesses. 20 of those who walked were residents and staff of Heritage Life Personal Care Home. 22 Grade Ten students joined the party, including two young boys in cowboy outfits.

The lunch corresponded with the regular seniors’ weekly meal, so the hall was full. A local band called Wildflower provided a half-hour of entertainment.

At the time of this writing, the donor envelopes had not all been submitted, but the tally was already over $5,000.

“This really exceeded my hope and expectations,” Penner says. “Next year, we’ll make sure pictures are taken and, hopefully, more groups of people, including children, can be involved.”

In the fall, Niverville Services to Seniors will present a video series to educate the community about dementia and volunteer opportunities. Over 3,000 families have been helped by the Alzehimer’s Society and Niverville is a community that prides itself on its support of seniors.