Ripples is brought to you by Gordie Howe CARES in association with J5 Design, with advisory input from members of the Hotchkiss Brain Institute. It is created by reaching out into the dementia caregiver community and collecting stories and learnings from those who have experienced the caregiving journey.

Caregiving is what you make it

Caregiving can be an amazing experience. Care is one of the ways we connect to each other. We are caregivers because of our humanity. It makes us better people. And it helps us grow. You are likely a caregiver because someone cares for and trusts you.

When we approach caregiving as a team sport, it requires us to become vulnerable with those who would offer support and receive support from us. It gives us an opportunity to understand the value of the relationships around us and gives us a sense of purpose and connection. Caregiving isn’t just what the ‘primary caregiver’ does. If you are willing to offer support, you are also a caregiver. When caregivers are properly supported, they put themselves in a better position to be a support to others on the care team as well. As the rising tides lift all boats, we must strive to take care of each other.

When people hear the name Gordie Howe, they remember that tough but graceful hockey player sporting the famous number 9, affectionately known as “Mr. Hockey.” In a career spanning twenty-six NHL seasons, he accomplished more than anyone could have ever imagined. Ripples represents Gordie. His hockey legacy and his family’s story have created ripples that extend outward to people, community, and support. Ripples that aim to reduce statistics where once he fought to create them. It is Gordie Howe CARES' mission to ensure that dignity, support and education are provided to caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias so they are never alone on their journey.