In the fight against Alzheimer’s, the University Hospital Foundation is making a powerful impact by supporting groundbreaking research from Dr. Jack Jhamandas and his team at the University of Alberta.
For more than 20 years, Dr. Jhamandas, a distinguished neurologist and researcher, has dedicated his career to unlocking the mysteries of Alzheimer’s, a disease that impacts over 50 million people worldwide and is expected to affect double that number within two decades. With the support of the Foundation, his team’s latest breakthrough—a promising drug candidate with the potential to prevent and even reverse Alzheimer’s—has reached the critical stage before human clinical trials.
This life-changing research offers hope not only for Albertans but for families everywhere affected by this relentless disease.
Dr. Jhamandas’ approach to Alzheimer’s research is rooted in a deep commitment to finding innovative solutions that offer tangible improvements in patient outcomes.
Working alongside Dr. Lorne Tyrell, Founding Director of the Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, and Nobel Laureate Sir Michael Houghton, Dr. Jhamandas has been advancing Alzheimer’s research to where it is today. Together, they have developed a drug candidate that could transform the future of Alzheimer’s treatment, offering hope that the disease’s devastating effects might one day be preventable or even reversible.
The development of novel and effective disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer’s disease is one of the greatest scientific challenges of our time. We are hopeful that we are on to something very promising here, and we want to convey that hope to people who carry the burden of this condition.
Dr. Jhamandas and his team are deeply committed to this challenging research because they understand the far-reaching impact it could have. Alzheimer’s not only takes a toll on patients but also places significant emotional and financial burdens on their families and communities.
His work seeks to change the future for millions of people by giving them the opportunity to retain their memories, personalities and connections with loved ones.
For those who have experienced the effects of Alzheimer’s, it isn’t just a disease—it’s a life-altering journey for patients and families alike. Don Hunter’s decision to contribute $4 million to the Foundation stems from a personal encounter with the disease and a desire to create hope for others facing similar challenges. His wife of over 60 years, Sophie, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s over twelve years ago. As her condition progressed, her vibrant personality faded, and life-long routines became increasingly difficult.
“It’s hard to explain, but it (Alzheimer’s) is terrible,” Don shares. “Every time I look at her, it brings tears to my eyes. She was a vibrant person, kind and good to those kids and to me. She was my partner.”
The gradual erosion of Sophie’s memory and communication skills transformed the couple’s lives, leaving Don with a mission to prevent other families from experiencing the same.
Alzheimer’s affects more people than you think. That’s why I’m donating. Everyone knows someone impacted by the disease, and we can do something, now, if we get behind these researchers.
Your contributions to the Foundation make a meaningful impact in the battle against Alzheimer’s, heart disease, diabetes and other devastating conditions. Together, we can nurture a future filled with hope.
The goal of Dr. Jhamandas’ work is ambitious: to create a world where Alzheimer’s is no longer an inevitable part of aging but a treatable condition. The impact of this achievement would be profound, providing millions with a future free from the fear and uncertainty that often accompanies a dementia diagnosis.
This vision includes:
Every donation to the Foundation is a direct contribution toward a future without Alzheimer’s, heart disease, diabetes and other terrible conditions. Together, we can create a future filled with hope, health and healing.