January 2011


2011 Kamloops Walk

Each of the Walks is dedicated to an Honouree – a person who has been impacted by Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.

The 2011 Kamloops Investors Group Walk for Memories was dedicated to John Richard (Dick) McMaster.

Dick retired from his teaching career in 1987 as principal of Rayleigh Elementary School, but for 21 years he and his wife Gwen also enjoyed operating a wilderness retreat, Surrey Lake Fishing Resort, located just outside Kamloops.

The resort was an idyllic setting for many cherished family memories for the couple, their five children and 15 grandchildren. Passionately committed to the environment and enthusiastically promoting tourism in the area, Gwen and Dick were going "green" long before it was fashionable.

After being diagnosed with Early Stage Alzheimer’s in February 2010, Dick sought information and education and visited the Alzheimer Society of B.C. resource centre in Kamloops and Gwen has just attended her first Caregivers Support Group meeting.

"Dick and I are holding hands as we face an uncertain future," said Gwen. "With the support of family and friends we take one day at a time and keep active socially."

For information on the 2012 Investors Group Walk for Memories click here.