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Alzheimer Society of B.C. challenging Okanagan residents to change the stigma

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month; the society’s fundraising campaign runs to the end of the year
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January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. (Alzheimer Society of B.C./Contributed)

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is inviting Okanagan residents to challenge the stigma around dementia.

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and all month long, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is trying to redefine the disease.

According to the society, one-in-two British Columbians believe being diagnosed for dementia means the end of a meaningful life. The society wants to change that by spotlighting the process as people with the disease find joy and purpose.

“The Alzheimer Society of B.C. programs emphasize living well and forging new community connections, empowering people through self-advocacy,” the organization said in a release. “Local research reveals the overwhelming sense of hopelessness faced by people with dementia and their caregivers. The organization aims to break down that stigma, showcasing the myriad of ways someone can lead a fulfilling life even with dementia.”

Although January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, the society is starting their campaign early. From now until the end of the year, all donations to the society up to $65,000 will be matched, doubling the impact on one of B.C.’s most pressing diseases.

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Jordy Cunningham

About the Author: Jordy Cunningham

Hailing from Ladner, B.C., I have been passionate about sports, especially baseball, since I was young. In 2018, I graduated from Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops with a Bachelor of Journalism degree
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