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Who are You walking For?

Every year, Manitobans come together at the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s to support the work of the Alzheimer Society, so families living with dementia have a place to turn for guidance and resources.

Some are first-timers, others are seasoned Walkers now joined by their children or grandchildren. Whether you’re walking for a parent, a grandparent, a spouse or a friend — or alongside your workplace team — we all have a reason to Walk.

Chelsea’s Team

Chelsea Bernhard began walking in her mother’s memory more than 10 years ago.

“My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at just 48 years old. I was in my early 30s and unsure what to expect,” says Chelsea. “It was tough, but the support from the Society helped guide us through the next steps.”

Today, she walks alongside her coworkers from Comforts of Home – Care, where she supports people living with dementia and their families every day. Participating in the Walk as a team has become a meaningful way for her coworkers to step outside their daily routines.

“Walking as a team gives us time to connect, reflect and remember why our work matters,” says Chelsea. “Raising funds to support families living with dementia is our way of giving back.”

For workplaces, forming a Walk team is a powerful way to build camaraderie while making a real difference.

For Chelsea, the Walk has become a family tradition, her daughter has been attending since she was little. “She loves decorating our sign, bringing Grandma’s picture and seeing all the other families,” Chelsea says. “There’s music, face painting and so much joy.”

Gary’s Groupies

For Gary Garbutt, the Walk is more than an event — it’s one of the best days of the year. Surrounded by his team, “Gary’s Groupies,” he walks with his wife Barb, their children, grandchildren, and extended family — with even the family dogs joining in on the day.

He’s always been social, and the Walk brings that connection to life. Over the years, he’s become something of a regular, greeted with high-fives and familiar faces along the route.

“It’s inspiring,” Gary says. “You see all those people and you think, ‘wow, there’s a lot of support out there.’”

Living with Alzheimer’s disease has brought many changes to Gary’s life, but the support he’s found at the Society has made a meaningful difference. “My weekly support group meetings have become my happy place. I feel less alone because I’m with people who truly understand what it’s like living with dementia.”

Join a Walk in Your Community

This is more than just a Walk. It’s a powerful day for the dementia community to come together — to connect, celebrate and show that no one facing dementia walks alone.

Walks are happening across Manitoba this May and June. This year, we hope you’ll join Chelsea and Gary — along with thousands of others — in supporting families affected by dementia.

Funds raised help ensure families have access to education, support groups, counselling and guidance throughout their dementia journey.

Register today. Bring your family, your coworkers or a team of friends — and walk with purpose.

Learn more, donate or sign up at alzheimer.mb.ca/wfa