“It was the most moving event ever,” she says, noting participants ranged from children to seniors. “It’s a great way to do things.

“There’s the need to find more ways to help these folks and find a cure for (Alzheimer’s disease).”

Iwaszczenko is tying the event into Long Term Care Week, which is sponsored by the Ontario Long Term Care Association (OLTCA) and runs Oct. 25-29.

So far, the home has solicited the support of its local MPP, its physician and partner care providers to participate and spread the word.

Bloomington Cove is also exploring the possibility of partnering with Markham-Stouffville Hospital and the Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences in Whitby.

Iwaszczenko has advertised the walk, which begins at 1 p.m. at the railway station on Main Street, in the home’s monthly letter to families.

Bloomington Cove is also working with the local Chamber of Commerce and plans to approach the local newspaper to assist with publicity.

The Walk For Memories is the largest fundraising event for Alzheimer Society chapters in Ontario. The events aim to increase awareness and raise money for programs and services that support people living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia.

For more information about Iwaszczenko’s challenge or to get involved, e-mail her at janet.iwaszczenko(at)speciality-care.com

To share your story about how your marking long-term care week, e-mail natalie(at)axiomnews.ca

If you have feedback on this article, e-mail natalie(at)axiomnews.ca or call the newsroom at 800-294-0051.