Photo: Contributed
Marion Bremner
A longtime Kelowna businesswoman and pillar of the local non-profit community is in need of support after an ALS diagnosis.
Marion Bremner, the first woman to serve as president of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, back in March.
She was diagnosed one day after she was named the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce’s business leader of the year for 2021. Bremner’s involvement in Kelowna spans 40 years and includes leading and taking part in charitable and political initiatives.
In 1990, she founded Habitat for Humanity in Kelowna and became the first female chair of Habitat Canada.
Bremner also served as the manager of Meals on Wheels, the non-profit organization providing a hot meal delivery service in Kelowna.
“We were not expecting this devastating diagnosis earlier this year. ALS has a relatively short timeline, especially the type that my mom has. So seeing the support and seeing it happen so quickly is just wonderful. We really really appreciate it,” said Christy Hyde, Bremner’s daughter.
Former MLA Steve Thomson has taken to social media to share support and raise funds.
“To our community, a champion of our community needs some support. Through family and friends I have learned of the very significant challenges that my friend Marion Bremner is facing as a result of her diagnosis of ALS (Bulbar onset). This is a devastating disease with a very difficult prognosis for the future,” he said on Facebook.
“Bulbar onset is an aggressive form of this disease. The costs of clinical drugs and other medical costs are putting a severe financial strain on the family for something they were not prepared for.”
Thomson said the funds raised will go to a dedicated account and will only be used to support drug and medical costs.
Hyde tells Castanet medical costs have totaled close to $2,000 for several months.
“She has finally hit her deductible. The deductible will only help with the $500 medication. There is another medication, but because it was in clinical trials we couldn’t get it prescribed, so we had to purchase the component and that is $1,000 a month,” she said.
Bremner has started to lose her ability to walk.
Family and friends have started planning the purchase of a wheelchair-assessable vehicle.
“My mom is an incredibly positive, resilient and determined person who always puts others ahead of herself. Even though she has already lost so much to this terrible disease she remains focused on her family and friends, consistently there with an encouraging word and a compassionate heart. Her mental and emotional strength inspire me on a daily basis,” Hyde added.
For those interested in financially supporting Bremner and her battle can email [email protected].
