What is Race with Steph?

An initiative started by Steph Fauquier to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s Disease. Her mum, Dr. Robin McLeod, was recently diagnosed with it. Steph is completing one triathlon in each Canadian province from May to September 2023; for a total of 10 triathlons, and over 509 kms of racing. She starts on May 28, in British Columbia with the Victoria 70.3 Half Ironman. Please check out the race schedule, and follow along on social media for any updates.

Who is Steph Fauquier?

Steph Fauquier loves a challenge! When her mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s she decided early that she didn’t want to sit around and watch the progression of this disease. An idea was born to race across Canada to raise money and drive awareness to a disease not talked about! 

Who is Dr. Robin McLeod 

Dr. Robin McLeod was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. It was the most devastating news of our family’s life. Robin is a globally recognized surgeon, outstanding parent and friend, as well as a recent recipient of the Officer of the Order of Canada. She’s been recognized internationally for her contributions to general surgery and academic research and has been awarded many fellowships and prizes for teaching surgical technique and supporting women in surgery. She’s truly had a prolific career, and a big life!

What are we doing? 

Starting on Sunday May 28th, Steph will start her journey of completing 10 triathlons. Steph will complete one triathlon in each Canadian province from May 28 to September 17. By the end, she will have raced over 509 kms. Please check out the race schedule, and follow along on social media for any updates.

Where is the money going?   

We are raising money to create an endowment fund in Robin’s name at the University of Toronto Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases. The Tanz Centre brings together global experts to understand the complex genetic and environmental factors that contribure to neurodegenerative disease. The Tanz Centre is dedicated to developing new diagnostic tools and biomarkers that detect Alzheimer’s at its earliest stages, when it is most treatable.

Why are you raising money for Alzheimer’s Disease? 

We’re raising money not only for Steph’s mum, Robin, rather for all those impacted by Alzheimer’s. This disease disproportionately impacts women; nearly 70% of those diagnosed are women. It is a disease that begins in your midlife, yet symptoms appear in your 60s and 70s. It is a disease that carries a significant amount of stigma, social isolation, embarrassment and shame. It is a neurodegenerative disease, which means it is chronic, common, and untreatable. We are raising money to support life-altering research and to start a national conversation. 

How can you get involved? 

• Donate, donate, donate - please give to this initiative to fund and life-changing research! 

• Spread awareness, create community - Please share my story with as many friends, family, coworkers - everyone! Let’s create as much awareness as possible. Let’s come together! 

• Cheer me on and volunteer at a race - Come out and cheer me on! If you’re able, please consider volunteering at a race (or two). Each race requires lots of help from volunteers to make it successful! 

• Give lots of love and support to those impacted - When you can make sure you shower those affected by Alzheimer’s Disease with love, care, and attention. They are likely frightened and feel isolated. Don’t forget about the caregivers in your life. It’s a hard journey for all of us, and love and kindness wins the day!