WINDSOR CYCLIST DON MARTEL TACKLES 24 HOUR, CROSS-BODER RIDE FOR ALZHEIMER’S

Don Martel, Windsor resident and professional photographer, has made it his personal mission to fundraise for those suffering with dementia. Don is also the newly discovered brother of Biz X Columnist Joe McParland!

For the fourth year in a row, Don will be cycling for 24 hours on his birthday. However, this year, Don will be cycling on both sides of the border between Windsor and Detroit.

On Saturday, May 20, 2023, Don will cycle from sunset to sunset on his well-travelled bike, Miracle. He will begin his journey, at age 64, at the large Canadian flag at the base of Ouellette Avenue and end his tribute ride at the same location at age 65. Saturday will be spent cycling along the river in Windsor and Sunday will see Don tackling the second half of his grueling ride in Detroit.

The funds raised in Canada will allow the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County to provide quality services to those in need. Programs such as two adult day programs and in-home respite throughout the Windsor and Essex County region, provide necessary services to people living with dementia and their care partners. In 2020, it was estimated that there were 597,300 individuals living with dementia in Canada. By 2030, we can expect this number will reach close to 1 million. Locally, it is projected there are 8,600 persons over the age of 40 in Windsor & Essex County living with some form of dementia.

Established in Windsor in 1981, the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County is dedicated to serving those with Alzheimer’s disease, and related dementia and their caregivers in the community. Over 100 years after the discovery of these conditions, there is still no known cause or cure. What is known is that this disease can affect anyone. World Alzheimer’s Day is celebrated on September 21 each year.

TRIP DETAILS:
Start & end time: Sunset – 8:30pm, Saturday, May 20, 2023 to Sunset, 8:30pm, Sunday, May 21, 2023
Start & end location: Dieppe Gardens (under the Great Canadian Flag)

Donations can be made by calling 519-974-2220 ext. 221 or on-line at www.alzheimerwindsor.com .