It’s important to remember that Kevin and Laurie are funding the trip and trek themselves. All funds raised go to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.

Our Stories:

In September 2010, Laurie McAvoy and Kevin Sanford will climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa. Yes, it will be an amazing adventure, but the more important aspect to this challenge is what it represents – "Ascent for Alzheimer’s" – a yearly fund-raising event organized by the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.

Kevin and Laurie are committed to raising $20,000+ to go towards solving the medical mystery of Alzheimer’s.

Laurie’s Mum, Esther, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s on February 3, 2004. It’s not nicknamed “the long good-bye” for nothing. Esther’s family battles daily with the bittersweet paradox of still having her with them, but seeing her essence slowly disappear. In an ironic and regrettable twist of fate – although her memory is as non-existent as you would expect it to be, the one thing she is aware of is what is happening to her. She is trapped in a body that will no longer allow her to enjoy life, with a mind that tortures her.

Kevin is a longtime paramedic and has seen many elderly patients suffering from diseases such as Alzheimer’s and various forms of dementia. Kevin is also Laurie’s friend and climbing partner and, as such, has been aware of the devastating effects of this disease on Laurie, her mother, and her family.

But Esther is a symbol. The deeper purpose behind this campaign to raise funds towards Alzheimer’s research is so that, one day, Alzheimer’s will be a memory.