Walk for Memories 2013–Meet Walker Matthew Vorstermans
Matthew Vorstermans from Creemore, Ontario,is a six year veteran of the Walk for Memories in Barrie, Ontario
I started walking because of my family’s experiences with the ravages of disease. My Oma—grandmother in Dutch—was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease when I was nineteen. Sadly she lived far away and we could not care for her. It brought me great pain that I was unable to provide the support, comfort and peace that she did for me when I was younger. Since I couldn’t do that for her, I began fundraising for the Walk as a way to provide comfort and support to others.
But it’s not just my own experiences with Alzheimer’s disease that keep me going. So many other people have been affected. Chris, a local writer, director and editor, filmed his father’s progression with early onset Alzheimer’s and then turned it into a full length documentary. It was titled Forgetful but not Forgotten and dealt with the emotional impact of the disease. The movie was powerful and made me even more motivated to continue fundraising.
The Walk itself is exhilarating. It is encouraging to see everyone coming together to make a difference. As the biggest and most important fundraiser for the Alzheimer Society, the funds raised go a long way for this important cause. If we don’t act now, the impact on the next generation will be catastrophic.
To find a walk near you or to sponsor a walker, visit the Walk for Memories website.