Vorstermans surpasses fundraising goal
by Matthew Vorstermans
The month of May was largely cold, wet and overcast, but by its last day the temperature was pleasant; the sky was a vast blue dome with wads of cloud gliding across its surface; a gentle breeze caressed the verdant foliage, and there was a tangible serenity in the air.
Once I arrived at Springwater Provincial Park, I likewise felt tranquil and content because the turnout was impressive, my grandmother was featured multiple times along the “Honour Path” and not only did I reach my goal of $7,600, but a few subsequent pledges lifted it to $8,313.
In recognition for being the top fundraiser yet again, surpassing an online team and collecting 14 per cent of the grand total, I was presented with an Alzheimer Society Hero medal and a fabulous T-shirt bearing my grandmother’s name and image.
Mirroring these wonderful results were the numerous advancements documented last year. In February, researchers utilized biological ‘ink’ and 3D printing to create an accurate model of the blood-brain barrier, providing a platform to investigate neuro- inflammation—a key aspect of many dementias— and devise new treatments. Furthermore, through a comprehensive genetic analysis, scientists uncovered vital protective factors for Alzheimer’s and by extension, gleaned the mechanisms underlying the disease’s pathology. Complementing this discovery was the revelation of a unique genetic mutation and associated buildup of toxic proteins. Distinct from the notorious amyloid plaques and tau tangles, this signature could represent a new line of enquiry. By late April, the expression of a gene, and the number of proteins it creates, was found to directly correlate with Alzheimer-related modifications. While everyone carries the gene, people with abnormally high levels may benefit from therapies which block or hinder plaque formation. Near the end of July, it was confirmed a receptor within microglia—the brain’s custodians—helps devour harmful proteins and minimize cognitive decline. Importantly, the receptor has already undergone extensive scrutiny, so this new data bodes well for its rapid translation into a therapeutic agent. Lastly, as September was winding down, it was observed Alzheimer patients harbour an overabundance of fat-lipid cells. Microglia near plaques contained twice the amount of lipid droplets than those farther away, and there was a forty percent reduction in amyloid clearance. Thus, eliminating plaques and tangles seems insufficient to heal the disease; instead we must restore immune cell function in the brain, possibly by getting rid of excess fat.
From the beginning, I was hoping this Walk would be the most successful to date in commemoration of my twentieth anniversary, and due to your generous support, it was. I’m extremely grateful and I know my grandmother would be very happy too.
