I can no longer go on runs with my father, one of my favourite memories from my teenage years, but I want his commitment to giving back and passion for fitness to live on.

On Sunday, May 24, I will be running the Ottawa Race Weekend Half Marathon and raising money in his honour to support the incredible work being done at the Bruyère Health Memory Clinic. Donations will help support diagnosis, compassionate care, innovation, and family and community support.

The Bruyère Health Memory Program is a lifeline for individuals and families facing dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other memory disorders. As one of Eastern Ontario’s leading specialized memory programs, it provides expert diagnosis and care, as well as ongoing support to help patients maintain dignity, independence, and quality of life for as long as possible.

Its impact goes beyond clinical care. Bruyère is also advancing important research into aging, dementia prevention, and innovative treatments that could help shape the future of memory care. https://www.bruyere.org/en/fast-facts

Every contribution helps bring hope, dignity, and improved care to people living with memory loss and to the families who stand beside them. Please consider giving what you can — $1, $10, $100 — every donation is welcome and very much appreciated. Tax receipts will be provided, and donations will be directed to the Memory Clinic through the good folks at the Bruyère Health Foundation (https://www.bruyere.org/en/foundation_patients).

In Memory of Dad, who said:

Everything will work out.

Find the positive.

Don’t be afraid.

You can do anything.