-Victoria-A daughter’s view
In early 2007, Arlene Rees left her job to assist and care for her aging parents. Her mother was living with Alzheimer’s disease and, as fate would have it, soon after she left her job Arlene’s father suffered a stroke.
In the course of accessing information and researching treatment options, Arlene came across the Alzheimer Society of B.C.'s website -- and learned of their fundraising climb of Mount Kilimanjaro, Ascent for Alzheimer’s.
In honour of both her mother's journey through this disease, and her father's role as caregiver, Arlene decided to sign up. She left for Tanzania in the fall of 2007 and, after five days trekking up the mountain, Arlene stood with her team at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (19,340 feet).
Their journey symbolically represents the journey taken by those impacted by dementia; slowly, one step at a time.
A spouse’s view
By Geri Hinton
For more than 10 years, the dedicated staff and volunteers of the Alzheimer Society’s Victoria Resource Center have provided knowledge, encouragement and hope to our family, as we travelled our journey with a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
As a family caregiver, I received excellent written brochures about the current Alzheimer research and also guides outlining helpful tips and resources. Information was provided about the "Early Stage" Dementia support groups as well as caregiver support groups, and the volunteers were always available for a coffee and a chat.
The Alzheimer Society’s Victoria Resource Centre is a vital link for families experiencing the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
A professional caretaker’s view
By Lori Smith
My name is Lori Smith, and I’ve worked as a Recreation Assistant since 1991 at various complex-care facilities in Victoria.
I feel extremely fortunate to work with the dedicated group of professionals at Oak Bay Lodge's 3rd Dogwood Special Care Unit. We share the same vision and work towards a common goal: to create a home-like environment where our residents can engage in purposeful and meaningful activities, where they feel safe and at peace, a place where they feel they belong.
Our residents have lived rich and diverse lives filled with joys and sorrow, accomplishments, challenges and unique experiences. We recognize the individual and honour their life by including their memories into daily life.
We take it as a privilege to join these individuals and their families on their journey. We sing the songs they sang along to as a teenager, we dance with them and reminisce about the good ol' days!
A loving smile, a gentle kiss on the cheek or a mischievous wink makes everything worthwhile - I guess that is the easiest way to explain why I love to do what I do!
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