Baycrest

16 • BrainMatters • Fall/Winter 2024 TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS ALUMNI CAPTAINS BIKE THE DVP FOR BRAIN HEALTH As an added element of excitement for Baycrest and participants, Leafs Captains Darryl Sittler (#27), Wendel Clark (#17), and Rick Vaive (#22) brought their competitive spirit from the ice to the highways, each leading a team of fundraisers. Their mission: to see who could raise the most money for Baycrest. Known for their record-breaking achievements on the ice, Sittler, Clark, and Vaive channeled their celebrity status into a cause close to their hearts. The friendly rivalry among their teams not only spurred donations, it also highlighted the importance of community and support. Sittler, a long-time supporter of Baycrest, spoke passionately about his reasons for participating. "We just recently lost a close hockey player in my era, Bob Murdoch, to severe dementia. Our community is tight-knit, and events like these are our way of staying connected and supporting each other." Sittler's personal connection to the cause was evident, as he shared stories of his father-in-law and mother, both affected by dementia. "My mother and I spent time at Baycrest, so I know firsthand the incredible work they do." For Clark, the fight against dementia is deeply personal. "My mom passed away with Alzheimer's, and her brother lived with it for almost 15 years," he recounted. Clark's participation is a tribute to his family's battle with the disease and his commitment to supporting Baycrest's ground-breaking work. "Baycrest is at the forefront of learning and advancements in Alzheimer's care, and it's crucial to get the right medication and support." Anybody can do it, you don't have to be an avid cyclist... It's a beautiful ride, and it's great to have our Leafs alumni involved. Darryl Sittler Darryl Sittler, Wendel Clark and Rick Vaive jump in the saddle for Toronto's Ultimate 1-Day Bike Ride to drive awareness about dementia and brain health. Toronto's annual Mattamy Homes Bike for Brain Health in support of Baycrest, "The Ultimate 1-Day Bike Ride," is so much more than just a cycling event. It's a coordinated movement to defeat dementia, with this year's ride drawing over 9,500 participants, including three Toronto Maple Leafs legends: Darryl Sittler, Wendel Clark, and Rick Vaive. On June 2, 2024, Toronto's bustling DVP and Gardiner Expressway transformed into a cyclist's paradise. With no cars in sight, riders of all ages and skill levels took to the roads, united by a common cause. From the 10 km leisurely rides to the challenging 75 km routes, the event offered something for everyone, proving that you don't need to be an avid cyclist to make an impact and have some fun along the way. Leafs legends brought the Bike for Brain Health mission to TV and radio, and to Baycrest's Kimel Family Centre for Brain Health & Wellness on April 5.

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