Alexa McDonough: Immeasurable impact and a towering legacy

To our Alzheimer Society community, family, and friends:

The death of Dr. Alexa McDonough marks the passing of a standout leader, feminist, philanthropist and, most importantly, a cherished heart and brilliant mind. Our communities have suffered a loss that is felt from the most intimate of circles to the biggest of nationwide stages. To Alexa’s family and friends, our Society – and indeed our entire country – grieves with you.

Though many of us know Alexa through her political work, she’s been a force for change since her teens when she led her youth group to fight the deplorable conditions in Africville. She has been a social worker, reporter, teacher, and of course, a ground-breaking politician. She fought for worker health and safety improvements, human rights protections and pay equity, and has been a champion of international development and peace advocacy. Anyone who met her felt the dynamic pulse of philanthropy and advocacy running through every fibre of her being.

Alexa’s philanthropy was reflective of how she spent her career - fighting for equity and improved lives across communities through feminist initiatives, activism, and a dedication to social justice. In 2013, Mount Saint Vincent University’s Institute for Women, Gender and Social Justice was re-named the Alexa McDonough Institute for Women, Gender and Social Justice (or AMI) as a way to acknowledge her incredible dedication and impact.

Alexa’s connection to the Alzheimer Society began many years ago, and the McDonough family remain among our most treasured friends. Having two parents on the dementia journey and parenting two children herself, Alexa aligned with the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia and quickly became a valuable member of our Board of Directors. Her sons, Justin and Travis (and indeed, their entire extended families), have been constant supporters of ASNS and especially our annual Walk for Alzheimer’s. Alexa’s influence is clear – her grandchildren were participating in the Walk before they could even take their first steps, and Justin began as a door-to-door volunteer for ASNS in his teens, eventually going on to offer his expertise and commitment as our Board Chair! Alzheimer’s disease and dementia were close to Alexa’s heart. Should you wish to make a donation to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia in Alexa’s memory, you can do so here.

Alexa’s family has requested that all condolences, memories, and thoughts be shared in the online book of condolences so that they can be preserved in one central place. This is a wonderful opportunity to collectively celebrate Alexa’s impact and respect the family request for no cards or flowers. Should you wish to read Alexa’s obituary or contribute to the book of condolences, you can do so here.

Alexa’s bright light will never fade, and we hold her incredible warmth, courage, and commitment to making the world a better place deeply in our hearts. And indeed, as a challenge to continue this incredible legacy in the work we continue to do to ensure ALL Nova Scotians are supported on their dementia journey.