Climb for Alzheimer’s: A journey of friendship and advocacy

When Ash Abhyankar and Clark Starrie first met in Houston, they were at the beginning of their careers with a large software company. They immediately became great friends, even though they lived in different cities. Their bond remained unbreakable over the years, through Clark’s diagnosis with Alzheimer’s disease in 2003 and eventual passing in 2013.

While Clark and Suzi were living in Atlanta, Suzi began to notice Clark’s increasingly unusual behaviour, like driving on the wrong side of the road, struggling with counting money and telling time. When Clark fell victim to company layoffs after 9/11, Suzi suspected dementia. They decided to move back to Maple Ridge to be with family, where his diagnosis was confirmed. When his condition progressed, he eventually transitioned into long-term care, with family and Ash in constant attendance.

Throughout Clark's journey with Alzheimer's, Ash stood by Suzi as a pillar of support. "Ash has been a dear friend for over 50 years," Suzi reflects. "When you get deep into the dementia journey, a lot of friends drop off and he was one who did not." Ash’s understanding of Clark and Suzi’s journey was deepened in 2011, when he began caring for his sister Malti, who had been living with a cognitive impairment since childhood and had more recently developed dementia. His experiences with his sister helped shape his understanding of the challenges Suzi faced.

When Clark passed away in 2013, it motivated Ash to connect to the Alzheimer Society of B.C. He became deeply involved in fundraising, particularly for the annual Climb for Alzheimer’s. The event is an opportunity to show people affected by dementia they’re not alone on what can be an uphill journey by courageously hiking Grouse Mountain or participating in the Summit Stroll at its peak. Funds raised provide vital resources like caregiver support groups, which Ash and Suzi encourage caregivers to utilize.

On Sunday, September 22, Ash will be gearing up for the 14th annual Climb for Alzheimer’s. Driven by his personal journey and a desire to make a difference, Ash has rallied his community – friends, family, and colleagues – to join him in the ultimate ascent. In 2023, he led as the top fundraiser and aims to surpass that achievement this year.

Suzi stands proudly behind Ash’s advocacy efforts. "Dementia touches so many lives," she says. "The more awareness we raise, the better prepared we are to face this disease."

As this year marks the final year of the Climb for Alzheimer’s, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. anticipates a memorable send-off.  Ash encourages all to join the Climb for Alzheimer’s, emphasizing the event’s inclusivity and an opportunity for families to come together. “We’re honouring the important role caregivers, families, friends and caregiving organizations play in supporting this great cause,” he says.