Ottawa’s 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Unites Community for a Cause

The 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s took place in Ottawa on March 4, 2025, drawing an estimated 150 participants who came together to raise funds and awareness for those affected by dementia. The event, held at the Jordan block, aimed to support research and provide resources for the millions of families navigating the challenges of this disease.

Jeff Hettrick, a local resident, felt a personal connection to the cause as he has witnessed his mother, mother-in-law, and father-in-law struggle with Alzheimer’s. He shared poignant memories of his mother, recalling, “Every case is different. My mom couldn’t remember anything after 1972.” Hettrick emphasized the emotional struggle of communicating with loved ones who are affected, stating, “We kind of had to learn how to communicate with her, and it’s really hard because you know that somewhere deep inside, they want to communicate with you, but they just can’t seem to do that.”

The event’s senior manager, Kayli Rizzo, expressed optimism about reaching the fundraising goal of $43,000. Before the walk began, the total stood at $35,000. Rizzo shared her own family experience with Alzheimer’s, describing how her grandmother cared for her mother during a time when cognitive issues were often dismissed as normal aging. “Awareness is greater,” she noted, highlighting the impact of educational campaigns and fundraising efforts.

Rizzo pointed to advancements in understanding dementia, mentioning recent studies that emphasize lifestyle interventions for brain health. “Being physically active, socializing, doing mental exercises, and healthy eating help increase cognition over time,” she explained.

Participants also voiced their desire for deeper research into the causes of Alzheimer’s. Bob Frig, whose late wife Ruth battled the disease, critiqued the focus on treatments that do not address the root problems. “I really don’t believe that much in the so-called treatments that they have – the money makers – and I still maintain that until they figure out what really causes Alzheimer’s, we won’t make significant progress,” he asserted.

The walk was not only about fundraising but also about honoring those who have passed. Joanne Milby joined Frig to remember Peg Gonet, a dedicated advocate who passed away in August 2024. Milby reflected, “She was always there to help anybody who needs it. I know she’d be happy to know that we’re here.”

Dementia’s impact reaches far beyond Ottawa, as participants came from various locations to show their support. Jen Belkov traveled from Chicago, sharing her family’s history with the disease. “I have it on both sides of my family. My mom’s mom and my dad’s dad both had this disease. It’s a big fear on both sides of the family, but we’ve made huge progress in research, treatment, and risk reduction,” she said. Belkov expressed hope that future generations would not face the same struggles her family has endured.

The 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s served as a reminder of the collective fight against this devastating disease, fostering community spirit and commitment to finding solutions.