Walking with “Gary’s Groupies”

Enjoying connection, community & celebration

For Gary Garbutt, the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s is more than an event — it’s one of the best days of the year.

Surrounded by his team, “Gary’s Groupies,” he walks with his wife Barb, their children, grandchildren and extended family — with even the family dogs joining in.

Over the years, Gary has become something of a Walk regular, greeted with high-fives and familiar faces along the route. Living with Alzheimer’s disease has brought changes to Gary’s life, but it hasn’t taken away his love for being around people. He has always been social, quick to chat and happiest when he feels connected. The Walk is a day all about connection.

“It’s inspiring,” Gary says. “You see all those people, and you think, ‘wow, there’s a lot of support out there.’”

Seeing so many people at the Walk, talking together, laughing and sharing stories means a lot to Gary. It’s these feelings of connection and support that bring him hope and help him to keep moving forward.

Gary first sought out the Alzheimer Society after noticing changes in himself that he thought could be a sign of dementia. Unsure of what to expect, he reached out with questions and concerns and was eventually invited to join a support group, which quickly became a meaningful part of his life.

“My weekly support group meetings have become my happy place,” Gary says. “I feel less alone because I’m with people who truly understand what it’s like living with dementia.”

Participating in the annual Walk gives Gary another opportunity to be surrounded by people who know firsthand what it means to live with dementia, and to walk alongside a community that has made such an impact on his and his family’s lives.

Gary is looking forward to walking with Gary’s Groupies again on Saturday, May 30, at Assiniboine Park. He encourages you and your family to join him there — along with thousands of others — in support of all Manitobans affected by dementia.