Fall 2025 Newsletter

Welcome Fall

A Season of Joy and Hope

When I listen to community members sharing their stories more openly, and with confidence, I feel a sense of growth and progress. This work matters. With dementia cases rising dramatically, we need to talk about it openly, provide practical support and tools, and shape the changes needed for the future.

Meaningful moments of connection are popping up everywhere, seen above with Fran and Anne at the Club 36 Adult Day Program. Our community is gathering together, hosting progressive conversations, and advancing new possibilities. We’re collaborating with partners, raising public awareness, and growing a social movement. We’re also lifted by the ground breaking on Canada’s first dementia-inclusive park in Calgary. With your care and support, people impacted can continue to live well and not be defined by their diagnosis.

Barb Ferguson, Executive Director

A Love Story Beyond Memory

One Man's Journey with Alzheimer's and Advocacy

The first signs were subtle. A second pill on the nightstand. A burnt frying pan in the garbage. These small moments marked the beginning of a decade-long journey with dementia for Calgary couple Ron and Joanie Freckleton.

"She knew before I did," Ron recalls. When he questioned the extra medication, Joanie was defensive, "I don't have Alzheimer's!" That moment of clarity and fear marked their new reality.

Joanie was 69 when the changes began. Though they never sought a formal diagnosis - a choice made out of respect for her feelings - their life transformed as her cognitive abilities declined over ten years.

Joy in Routine

Despite the challenges, Ron and Joanie maintained normalcy and dignity. Every day, they visited the same grocery store at the same time, choosing the same cashier. The routine provided comfort to Joanie, who had once been a cashier herself.

"The people in the store recognized us and would wave," Ron shares. "It was a really nice routine that allowed us to feel normal."

Ron learned to adapt his approach. "I had to change my jokes and how I naturally reacted," he explains. Rather than correcting mistakes or engaging in repetitive conversations, he chose compassion and patience to preserve her dignity even during challenging behaviours.

"There was no point in arguing," he reflects, whether she called police during arguments or locked him out when he took out garbage.

From Loss to Advocacy

In 2014, they decided Joanie would move into a retirement community. Before they could transition, she passed away. They spent their final 61 hours together reminiscing about their wonderful life.

Following her passing, Ron moved into the retirement community as planned, describing it as "the best thing I ever did." This marked his emergence as a dementia advocate.

Ron's advocacy began with an essay about his final hours with Joanie, meant for family and friends, which evolved into a book, Our Time to Say Goodbye. "My grief was gone after writing the initial essay," he notes. Book signings created unexpected connections, with readers sharing how his story helped them.

He donated all proceeds to Alzheimer Calgary, beginning his deep involvement with the organization. Though he hadn't used their services during Joanie's illness - "I didn't seek help; didn't even think of it. It's a guy thing." - he recognized its tremendous value.

Today, his advocacy includes growing dahlias for the annual "Adopt a Dahlia" fundraiser, creating annual calendars, and organizing "Walkers Walk" events. He received the Jeanne Bentley award, for volunteerism with Alzheimer Calgary, and serves as Ambassador for the Alzheimer Calgary Walk and Run fundraiser.

Insights and Hope

Through his experiences, Ron developed profound insights about dementia. "I think some behaviour stems from insecurity and a desire to be independent," he observes.

His advice to families facing diagnosis:

"Seek a doctor knowledgeable in geriatrics. Get your loved one out in society. Both the person and caregiver can still enjoy life. Your world gets smaller when you don't get out."

To supporters, his message is urgent:

"Funds are needed for crucial caregiver support. The respite from programs like Club 36 is amazing and absolutely necessary."

Looking ahead, Ron sees progress and hope. "Progress has been huge in the 10 years I've been involved. I can see it with Alzheimer Calgary and at the lodge where I live. I believe I've made a difference with awareness programs and fundraisers."

From husband navigating heartbreaking loss to award-winning advocate, Ron's journey embodies resilience and the power of turning personal tragedy into community support. Through his continued advocacy, Joanie's memory lives on, helping countless others navigate their own dementia journeys.

Innovation Drives Hope

A major event featuring a globally renowned dementia care expert

It was called “Still Me,” a collaborative daytime event featuring sector professionals and academics. Dr. Al Power worked alongside the Alberta Association on Gerontology, Dementia Network Calgary, Alzheimer Calgary and others to explore more dignified, inclusive options for care in Calgary. Dr. Power shared fresh perspectives and hope for the 300 community audience members who came to the evening presentation on inclusive caregiving practices and transformative models of care.

Alzheimer Calgary Achieves Accreditation

Alzheimer Calgary was awarded full accreditation by the Canadian Accreditation Council (CAC) with a perfect score of 100%! This exceptional result, earned by only a small percentage of organizations in Canada, validates that your support enables us to deliver outstanding programs and services.

This achievement follows nearly two years of rigorous preparation involving our entire team. The process included interviews with our board, leadership, and staff, plus audits of each Club 36 site. We reviewed and updated policies, procedures, and practices across all operations – from governance and financial management to program delivery and client outcomes.

The CAC evaluation examined our technology systems, human resources practices, ethics and accountability measures, health and safety protocols, and more. This accreditation is your assurance that every dollar you entrust to us is being used effectively and responsibly. With accreditation valid until the renewal in June 2028, we're committed to continuing this excellence while building an even stronger foundation for the future.

Dementia Network Calgary

Alzheimer Calgary proudly serves as the backbone organization, ensuring continuity of this multi-stakeholder initiative that advances meaningful systems-level change and advocacy for Calgarians navigating the dementia journey.

Dementia Network Calgary is Making an Impact

• Advocacy
• System navigation
• Improving early diagnosis, detection, initial intervention & support
• Expanding public awareness/stigma reduction
• Dementia-inclusive communities

Canada's First Dementia-Inclusive Park

A symbol of hope and understanding

Calgary has taken a significant step towards inclusivity with the creation of Canada’s first dementia-inclusive public park. This unique space will cater to the needs of individuals living with dementia and their care partners, providing a safe and engaging environment. Named the Martin Family Legacy Garden and located at Southview park in Calgary’s Southeast, it will be a model for communities across the country, expecting to welcome visitors in late 2026.

Park Features

The design is a healing sanctuary, including sensory gardens, walking paths, and interactive installations that contribute to physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Each element is thoughtfully designed to promote cognitive engagement.

Community Involvement

Alzheimer Calgary is proud to partner with Parks Foundation Calgary and many other local organizations and volunteers playing an important role in the development of the park. Workshops and feedback sessions were held to gather community input from families affected by dementia, making this park a truly collaborative effort.

Community Fundraisers

The local community is stepping up to raise funds for the cause

Dot Foods Opening

On June 17th, Alzheimer Calgary was honoured to be invited to the Dot Foods Grand Opening of their Alberta facility. A family-owned and operated business, the team at Dot Foods has been personally touched by dementia and donated $5,000 to Alzheimer Calgary.

3rd Annual Steve Rayner Golf 4 Memories Tournament

September 20th at EagleQuest Golf Calgary Douglasdale. Email this address for more information (right click and copy address).

Normal Aging or A Sign of Dementia?

Help change the way your community sees and responds to dementia

This spring, our awareness efforts focused on answering of the most common questions we receive. Combined with an awareness-based Bingo game to help people identify potential signs of dementia, over 8,600 people visited the site and over 1,400 checked out the Bingo game.

Special thanks to our local partners providing perks like yummy treats and healthy activities.

2025 Alzheimer Calgary Walk and Run

Inspiring Stories

Team Sharon

A Legacy of Love

For Janet Miller and her niece Jessica Barnes, the Alzheimer Calgary Walk & Run is more than a fundraiser - it's a cherished family tradition built on love, humour, and remembrance.

Inspired by Janet’s mother, Sharon, who lived with dementia until her passing in 2013, Team Sharon has been participating for almost two decades, growing larger each year and now led by Jessica as Team Captain and 2025 Walk & Run Ambassador.

With their signature red balloons and joyful energy, Team Sharon has become a familiar and uplifting presence at the event. “People tell us they look for the red balloons every year,” says Janet. “It cheers them up just to see us.”

Beyond the event, Janet has accessed Alzheimer Calgary’s education, support, and continues to refer friends who are on the caregiving journey. Jessica adds, “This is what Grandma Sharon would have wanted — community, family, and fun. Her legacy lives on through every step we take together.”

“There can still be joy. You can step outside your daily life, connect with others, and remember you’re not alone.” - Janet, Team Sharon

No Age Limit

Every year, people of all ages and walks of life selflessly support our work through the Walk and Run. Eleven-year-old Carson Rapke has set his sights on something more meaningful: raising funds to support those affected by Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

When asked why it's important for young people to get involved with causes like this, Carson says, "Young people might have older people in their lives that they love and who have Alzheimer's, and it's important to get active in the community."

World Alzheimer's Day

Education Sessions

Valuable sessions for caregivers and professionals because a knowledgeable community is a thriving community

Talking About Dementia

Introduction to Dementia

Thank you to the supporters of Talking About Dementia events

Club 36

Club 36 is an Adult Day Program offering a caring and supportive environment where people with dementia feel independent and valued. Club also provides caregivers with important respite and a chance to focus on their own wellness needs.

Club 36 is a partnership between Alberta Health Services and Alzheimer Calgary and has provided quality dementia care in Calgary for more than 30 years.

A Student Finds Purpose at Club 36

When Francis Simpelo began his social work practicum in January 2025, he expected to encounter people who would quickly forget conversations. Instead, he discovered whole people with rich stories and enduring love for their families. “There was a member I once had a lovely conversation with, where he spoke fondly about the many memorable moments he shared with his wife. He would humor me with bits of relationship advice, but also shared genuine wisdom about the importance of communication and connection with others.”

Francis witnessed the transformative power of music when classic songs from the 70s and 80s would light up members' eyes with recognition. Even those who could no longer speak full sentences would hum along, their faces animated with memories. Through personalized playlists, he saw music unlock stories and create "magical moments" where members seemed to relive their experiences. His most profound lesson was about patience and empathy - understanding that Club 36 provided not just care, but precious respite for selfless caregivers. As he embraced the program's core belief, he shared: "It's the disease, it's not the person."

“These moments revealed that the essence of who they were remained beautifully intact.” - Francis Simpelo

Staff Spotlight

Behind every meaningful moment are extraordinary staff with compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication.

Lezette - Dementia Network Navigator

The most fulfilling thing about my work is connecting with individuals and families, hearing their stories, and supporting them through their dementia journey with empathy and meaningful connection.

My favourite experience has been getting to know our clients on a deeper level and witnessing the meaningful connections they build through our community and education sessions.

We try our best to make Club 36 a comfortable, positive and fun experience for our members.

More about me:

• I have over six years of experience in social services, supporting diverse groups, including immigrants, refugees, unhoused individuals, adults with developmental disabilities, individuals within the criminal justice system, and those facing mental health and addiction challenges.
• I grew up in Toronto, Ontario and moved to Calgary in 2009.
• On my bucket list is to skydive one day.
  
  
  
  

Kaylee - Dementia Support Navigator and Team Lead

The most fulfilling thing about my work is people feeling comfortable sharing their most difficult moments with me and witnessing their immense resilience. They navigate complex healthcare systems and behavioral changes while continuing to show up for their person. It's an honour to support them.

My favourite experience at work has been seeing care partners and people living with dementia connect with others on a similar journey. Witnessing the moment when people realize they're not alone has made a huge impact on me.

More about me:

• I'm from a small town, so have a passion for supporting rural communities. I love seeing how small communities leverage limited resources and work together to create better quality of life for everyone.
• I love being creative - crocheting, crafting, or finding new ways to bring ideas to life. Creativity gives me joy and purpose, and I enjoy turning something simple into something meaningful.

Jenna - Community Engagement Coordinator

The most fulfilling thing about my work is providing educational sessions and support group opportunities that create connection, understanding, and shared experience. Witnessing people feeling seen, supported, and empowered - often for the first time - is incredibly rewarding.

My favourite experience at work has been creating volunteer opportunities through Peer-Led Support Groups. It is a privilege to get to know the volunteers, who bring compassion, experience, and a commitment to supporting others. A highlight was helping form the first men's group, led by two remarkable volunteers who use their lived experience to support and connect with fellow caregivers.

More about me:

I’m dedicated to building inclusive, dementia-friendly communities using recreation, sport, and social connection. My goal is to eliminate stigma, break down barriers, and show that joy and purpose are possible at every stage of the dementia journey.

Kristy - Program Facilitator at Club 36

The most fulfilling thing about my work is seeing smiles on members’ faces and hearing them express how much they've enjoyed their day at Club 36.

My favourite experience at work is being part of an amazing and supportive team. They truly make work fun.

More about me:

• I have a 160lb Saint Bernard named Pancho.
• I LOVE camping, the mountains, and gardening.
• My daughter was born on our wedding day (5 weeks early) and we had to have the wedding a month later!
  
  

Self-Care for Dementia Caregivers

Prioritize Your Physical Health. Maintain regular sleep, eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and don't skip your own medical appointments.

Create Respite Opportunities. Accept help and explore adult day programs or respite services to give yourself crucial breaks.

Set Boundaries and Realistic Expectations. Focus on what you can manage today rather than trying to control the disease's progression or eliminate all challenges.

Stay Connected. Join caregiver support groups and maintain relationships with friends, family, or counselors who understand your journey.

Preserve Activities That Bring You Joy. Protect time for hobbies or interests that help you maintain your identity beyond caregiving.

Manage Stress and Emotional Health. Practice mindfulness techniques, keep a journal, and seek professional support if anxiety or depression develops.

Plan for the Future. Research care options gradually to reduce anxiety without overwhelming yourself with premature decisions.

In Memory and In Honour

January 1, 2025 - July 17, 2025

Generous donations have been made in memory of the following special people.

Beatrice Arden, Leo Aucoin, Lee Stuart Beattie, Robert Conne Becker, Barbara Bertsch, Jay Blanchard, George Boake, Vivienne Boyd, Leonard Brown, Carole Dianne Burgess, Rita Carducci, Raymond John Carreau, Bill Chaitan, Mary Joyce Charanduk, Sheila Kathleen Clapham, Elias Condon, Donna Crawford, Pia Dalledonne, Vivian " Lorraine" Davis, Lira Rose De Mello, Lillian Loraine Devolin, Dennis Lloyd Downes, Harry Alexander Drever, Elwyn James Eddy, Leela Elizabeth, Isobel Jean Fedyna, Mary Ference, June Marie Flanagan, Robert James Ford, Sara Fornasiero, Klaus Franz, Dawna Rose Frazer, Jean Fuller, Robert "Bob" Fuller, Patricia Mae Ganong, Gordon Garnett, Emma Good, Bree Greenway, Berenice Grossi, Patrick Handlon, Wayne Hannay, Doreen Anne Holub, Donna Jean Houck, Cliff Hrankowski, Elizabeth "Betty" Humble, Gunnar Jensen, Edie & Vi Jobson, Doreen Johnson, Gunter Karl Heinz Kaiser, Moondo Kim, Gary Kinvig, Jadwiga Jane Kraska, Greg Lafave, Jessica Maria Lain, Arij Langstraat, Raymond Lee, Raymond Lee, Robert Lee, Barbara Jean Lindeburg, Gerald Clarence Lockey, Dorothy Langair, Willard MacLeod, Abramo Massitti, Mulamootil Philip Mathew, George "Wayne" McKeage, Joanne Elizabeth Meis, Jean Marlene Mitchell, Jack Albert Morrison, Mrudulaben Morzaria, Carolyn Ann Murgatroyd, Mary Catherine Murray, Alice "Allie" Nicholl, Michael Chukwuemeka (Emeka) Oballa, Ann O'Connor, Marilyn Iris Oosterhuis, Margaret "Pauline" Palmer, Robert "Dale" Paul, Ida Poole, Eileen Margaret "Peggy" Prest, Sebastian Zachary Rocha, David Romard, Peter Ronald Salmon, Roberta Anne Savage, Victor Schimpf, Joyce Schofield, Roderick Seeger, Louanne Christmann Shultz, Farida Silas, Mary Small, Mary Ann Smolnicky, Valerie Stephenson, Walter Richard Straker, Bruno Struck, Christine Loretta Thomson, Mattie Treloar, Roseann Trump, Eleanor Lois Wallace, Charles Eric Ward, Marion Weldon, Elizabeth Whitehead, Nancy Wilde, Marlene Ruth Wilson, Tom Wortman, Donald Jacob Yantz, Audrey Helen Young

January 1, 2025 - July 17, 2025

Special gifts have been made to honour:

Heather May Aberdeen, Leo Aucoin, Evelyn Baranec, Ann Bayers, Neil Bayers, Michel Charland, Ron Freckleton, Thomas Huwiler, Raymond Lee, Dennis Olynek, Annie Orr, Laika Ramos, Farida Silas, Roseann Trump, Kent & Lois Wallace's anniversary, Fran Wong, Tammy Yamkowy and Tim Wilson

Thank You to Our Partners

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