For over 10 years, Steve McNeil, an Etobicoke mail carrier has been skating 19 hours and 26 minutes at rinks across Canada to pay tribute to his mother who was born in 1926 and passed away from Alzheimer’s disease. His skates also honour all the caregivers who continue to care for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Previously, Steve has skated up to ten Marathons each year, including skating in Niagara at Gretzky’s Estates Winery in 2020 and 2022. This year he will be doing one skate on January 14, 2023 in Kingston and is asking Canadians from coast to coast to join in and hold their own fundraising 1926 Skate Challenges.

Neighbourhoods across the Niagara Region are encouraged to host their own 1926 Skate Challenge to raise awareness and to fundraise for Alzheimer Society Niagara Region.

“Steve has skated in outdoor rinks across Canada in -34C weather, I encourage everyone to show their support here in Niagara for those living with dementia on National Skate Day” says Teena Kindt, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region.

1926 Skate Challenges can take place anywhere: in a backyard rink, community rink or even at a local hockey game or team practice. Participate with your community and donate $19.26 to the Alzheimer Society Niagara Region. Participants are encouraged to post pictures of their skating parties to social media using the hashtag #1926Challenge.

There are 11,099 people living with dementia in the Niagara Region. The Alzheimer Society’s mission is to advocate for and with people with dementia and their care partners and provide access to a diverse range of appropriate resources and supports. By providing education, personalized in-home support services and wellness programs, families can better understand dementia, navigate the health system, and access the resources they need, when they need them.

To donate to the Alzheimer Society Niagara Region: bit.ly/alzheimer-niagara

For more information: Steve McNeil’s Website: www.1926skate.com