Forget. Me. Not. Three simple words. When put together, however, the meaning becomes much more powerful. Everyone wants to live life to the fullest, to remember those around us, and likewise, to be remembered by those around us. We want to maintain our memories, our independence, and our dignity.
For the past four and a half months, I’ve been training to run the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in honour of loved ones and their caregivers who have experienced living with some form of dementia. By donating to my fundraising efforts, you won't only be helping me shuffle my way around 26.2 miles. A donation to the Alzheimer Society of Toronto would help provide vital support and services to people with dementia, their families, and caregivers.
As a normal part of aging, 40% of people over the age of 65 experience some form of memory loss. Unfortunately, the World Health Organization estimates that, 5 to 8% of us will live with dementia at some point and this percentage doubles every 5 years after 65. With dementia, symptoms including memory loss gradually worsen to the point where our abilities seriously deteriorate, and we are no longer able to take care of ourselves.
Canada is facing a dementia care crisis. By 2030, it’s estimated that 1 million of us will be living with dementia. Sadly, dementia does not only affect the individuals suffering from the condition itself. It also has an impact on their caregivers, who can often be loved ones and family members trying to provide day-to-day care.
We've all had a loved one who's suffered with dementia. Forget them not. Please consider honouring them as well, by donating today.
Thank you.
Sarah
