Vancouver woman climbs to build a community of courage

Last September, as Jennifer Dowdeswell met up with one of her teammates before the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s Climb for Alzheimer’s to help support people affected by dementia, she noticed her friend holding back tears. This friend had recently lost a parent to the disease. It was an emotional journey Jennifer herself began back in 2011, when her father Ian was diagnosed.

“Dementia can be so isolating,” Jennifer says. “For many people, this is their first community event around dementia, where they can connect in a social and physical way, while feeling like they are making a difference. The emotions can come up and it’s ok. We all get it.”

Jennifer, now a resource to her peers facing dementia for the first time, reflects on how challenging it was when her dad sought an initial diagnosis and treatment. Two things helped her through: accessing dementia education through the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and spending quality one-on-one time with her parents, including regular walks with her dad.

Ian, once a member of the Royal Navy, was quiet, intelligent and thoughtful, with a quick wit and charming presence. He was a professional engineer, avid sailor and both a natural and competitive athlete, with a passion for complex mathematical models. So, it was unusual when this very capable man suddenly started experiencing uncharacteristic disorientation. Raising funds through the Climb for Alzheimer’s aligned with their shared love of fitness and helped Jennifer cope with the changes.

“It’s something I knew I could do to give back and give me a sense of control over something I can’t control at all,” she says.

While Jennifer has been a top fundraiser for many years, fundraising didn’t necessarily come naturally to her. Each year she invites her network to participate or support the event and is overwhelmed by the response.

“With two in three people affected by dementia, when you ask for donations, people are often very willing and grateful to contribute in some way,” she says. “To donate is a way to feel connected.”

A decade since her first Climb for Alzheimer’s, and two years since Ian passed away, Jennifer is returning to join forces with the strong community connected to the event and ensure help is available when families need it the most.

“Over the years, more and more of my friends have parents, uncles, aunts or partners living with dementia. I am grateful that there is this event to invite them to.”

Join the community of courage

On Sunday, September 24, people from across the Lower Mainland will gather together for the Climb for Alzheimer’s at Grouse Mountain to courageously hike up the local favourite BCMC Trail.

For anyone who would like to participate without the hike, there’s the Summit Stroll – a more accessible, family-friendly alternative. The Stroll begins with a gondola ride and jaw-dropping views of Metro Vancouver and Burrard Inlet, followed by a scenic 1.5-kilometre, self-guided walk around the top of the mountain.

Whichever option you choose, once you’re at the top, you’re free to explore the sights and sounds of the many exhibits at your leisure, and enjoy the Climb’s finish line activities. Afterwards, take the gondola ride back down whenever you like.

The Climb for Alzheimer’s helps ensure the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s crucial programs and services are available in communities throughout British Columbia. It also enables research into the causes of and cures for dementia, as well as advocating for public policy that reflects the issues and realities of people affected by dementia.

To register, or learn more, visit climbforalzheimers.ca.