Could a gourmet hot dog lead to a cure for Alzheimer’s disease? Why not buy one and find out? On Saturday, June 17, Myrtle’s Famous Hotdogs and The Wexford Seniors Community partner for the fifth year to sell gourmet hotdogs and raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.
“Since we first started this event, we’ve sold more than 1750 dogs and raised more than $17,000 for the Alzheimer’s Society. It’s pretty incredible,” says John Meier, who operated Myrtle’s Famous Hotdogs from a cart at Tsawwassen Town Centre mall.
The cart had a reputation for authentic Chicago and New York Dogs that had John’s customers craving them long after he parked the cart and went to work as a Lifestyle & Wellness Assistant at The Wexford Seniors Community. The first year he worked at The Wexford, the idea of a collaborative event to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society of BC was born.
“My grandma Myrtle lived with Alzheimer’s for seven years before she passed; that’s why we chose to support the work the Alzheimer’s Society of BC does,” says John. “Every year at this event, past customers come up to me and tell me stories about how Alzheimer’s has impacted their lives.”
In 2022, a study conducted by the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada identified more than 85,800 British Columbians living with dementia. More than 50,000 residents support those living with dementia.
This year, John and the team at The Wexford set a fundraising goal of contributing $5000 towards research and supporting individuals and families living with Alzheimer’s. “I think Myrtle would be absolutely delighted! We had no idea when we started that we’d be able to make such an impact,” reflects John. “But it’s not just me and my grandma making this happen. I can’t thank my colleagues enough for everything they pour into this event. It’s part of the reason I love working at The Wexford; the whole company has such a social conscience.”
The event takes place between 11:30-2:30 on Saturday, June 17, in the parking lot outside The Wexford. Gourmet hotdogs are the main attraction, but this year’s party also features live classic rock, entertainment for kids, homemade kettle chips, ice cream and more. A $10 donation to the Alzheimer’s Society will get your favourite dog, or make it a combo for $15 with a drink and kettle chips on the side.
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