The Alzheimer’s/Investors Group Walk for Memories, 2013, is dedicated to Barriere resident Jean Hambrook.
Born in Kamloops as the third oldest of nine children, she married Tom on May 12, 1962.
As Tom’s job in the forest industry required that he moved often, they have lived in many different communities throughout B.C., ending up in Barriere. Jean is no stranger to Alzheimer’s disease, having gone through it with her mother. Her mom ended up in a home, as even with medication, her condition deteriorated rapidly.
Having witnessed her mom’s struggle with Alzheimer’s, Jean and her husband Tom knew the warning signs, and were able to get Jean diagnoses quickly, when her symptoms started showing two years ago.
The doctor prescribed Jean a medication called ‘aricept’, a newer drug. Being a newer drug, it is more expensive, which caused some problems initially, as the government did not initially want to pay for it. The doctor had to get special dispensation for her. However, it was well worth it.
Prior to taking the medication, Jean was unable to remember simple shopping lists, or even where to go to do her shopping.
“Within two days of starting her medication,” her husband, Tom, said, “she was virtually back to normal. It was amazing.”
Jean and Tom received information and support during the progression of the disease from the Alzheimer Society of B.C. With this information, and from what they learned from their experiences with Jean’s mom, they learned how to work and cope with dementia.
When you participate in the Investors Group Walk for Memories, you help transform the way we all live with and challenge dementia. On January 27, everyone is invited to come out to the Barriere Senior’s Hall at 10 a.m. to prepare for the 2013 Walk for Memories. After a short warm up, the walk will start at 11 a.m. After the walk, there will be a light lunch, a silent auction, a raffle for a laptop and other items, and door prizes.
For more information, contact Liz Gilbertson, 250-672-9337.