This Sunday, Jan. 29, Barb Witte will be walking in honour of her late father when she takes to the track at Bob Dailey Stadium.
Witte is the chairperson for the Investors Group Walk for Memories, which takes place at 11 a.m.
She started the event last year after seeking information on Alzheimer Disease following her father’s diagnosis. She saw a link for the walk on the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s website, and after discovering there was no such event in Port Alberni, decided to start one.
“I went to the website to try and understand what was happening to him as well as what to expect,” Witte said.
Last year the walk raised $10,000 for Alzheimer’s research and support. This year Witte hopes to raise $12,000.
“I hope the walk will raise awareness and empower those facing this journey,” she added.
This year’s walk is being held in honour of the late Deach Tetarenko, who died from Alzheimer’s in 2010. Tetarenko’s wife Kathy and other family members will participate in the walk on Sunday.
The Tetarenkos participated in Alzheimer Society of B.C. support groups with Deach’s mother and then through his own diagnosis.
Also this year, retired Port Alberni teachers Robin and Jory Mitchell are the honourees for the Greater Vancouver walk. Robin Mitchell has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
The public is welcome to collect pledges and participate in Port Alberni’s walk.
For information, to register, or donate visit www.walkformemories.com or call Barb Witte at 250-723-6016.
editor@albernivalleynews.com