Sue Oakey: A legacy of climbing for a cause

As the final Climb for Alzheimer’s came to a close on Sunday, September 22, Sue Oakey took a moment to reflect on her own meaningful journey with the Alzheimer Society of B.C. – one marked by personal loss, enduring commitment and the unyielding support of community.

Sue’s connection to the cause began in 1998 with her late husband, Jim Haberl. Both certified backpacking guides in Whistler, they took the idea of combining their passion for the outdoors with a cause close to their heart, leading them to the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s inaugural Ascent for Alzheimer’s fundraiser, which would eventually inspire the Climb at Grouse Mountain.

Their initial climb up Mount Kilimanjaro was intended as a one-time event with Jim, a respected mountaineer, guiding a group of seven climbers. They aimed to raise funds and awareness for dementia – a cause that resonated deeply with Sue, whose grandfather was diagnosed with the disease.

Driven by a shared purpose, the group reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The experience left a deep mark on Sue. “It was magical – the whole experience of going to the top and these people really putting 120 per cent into getting up there and raising money for Alzheimer's disease,” says Sue. “Jim and I looked at each other and thought, ‘wow, that was amazing!’”

Tragically, as preparations were underway for a second Ascent in 1999, Jim died in a mountaineering accident. The decision to continue to guide the group alone was both difficult and deeply emotional. “It's not just your physical strength that counts in life, it's your emotional strength as well,” Sue admits. “But the group guided me as much as I guided them that year.”

Over the years, the Ascent brought together people from diverse backgrounds, all united by a shared purpose. Participants climbed not just for the challenge but to honour families affected by dementia. Stories of resilience and strength emerged on the mountain, from caregivers supporting parents to friends rallying for one another. With people here in B.C. wanting to support the teams, a companion event began here in B.C., where participants hiked the Grouse Grind® to show their solidarity. The event grew into the Climb for Alzheimer’s and continued long after the Ascent finished.

As Susan prepared for the final Climb for Alzheimer’s, she was filled with gratitude and a touch of sadness. "It’s bittersweet," she says. "But I’m honoured to have been part of it for so many years and it was a chance for people to reunite.”

Participants were encouraged to embrace every moment and reminded of what can be achieved when everyone works together. Sue recalled the motto often shared on Mount Kilimanjaro: “Pole Pole,” meaning “slowly, slowly.” “It's a similar thing. We just keep going step by step and everybody contributes a little bit,” she said. “And that means a lot.”

Sue’s story of resilience, dedication and community spirit continues to inspire people who joined the final Climb. Thankful to everyone who has participated over the years, Sue shares her final remarks. “I’m very appreciative of what the Alzheimer Society of B.C. does and all the people who donate their time and money,” says Sue. “These efforts remind us of the good in humanity.”