I give because of my Betty

I could give you all kinds of reasons why I choose to give to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. Here are the most important ones to me: it's an amazing cause and their support and resources reach right across our province.

They’re here not only for the person with dementia, but they also recognize that the greatest impact we can have is through supporting their care partners. Care partners like me.

The real reason I give is because of my Betty. I was lucky enough to marry my high school sweetheart and dream girl and share 59 years with her smile. When Betty was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2005, it changed everything in our lives.

Over time, I realized that I was unable to give her the care she required, and I needed help. That is when I reached out to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. Over the last 15 years, I have been a regular supporter of the work they do.

Like many folks, I read with concern the new report that predicts that the number of Nova Scotians living with dementia will almost double over the next few decades. To see the Society working toward influencing better supports and outcomes is the reason I keep giving.

We need more people talking about dementia and doing so sooner. We need more people advocating for better quality of life in long-term care. We need more research into the cause and cure. 

Most importantly, we need to ensure everyone in our communities has the knowledge they need to keep their brains healthy and reduce their own risk. 

Supporting my Betty in her final days was heartbreaking and I know that as a community, city and province, we can all do more.

I hope you will make a gift to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia and know that with that gift you are making a true difference to the future of dementia support in Nova Scotia.