Dave McAmmond
For most Albertans, a trip to the mountains takes a little time and effort. But all Dave McAmmond needs to do to see a mountain is to take a look outside his plant. As President and CEO of Canadian Treads Corp, Dave's quite used to seeing mountains of tires waiting to be retreaded. What others may see as having reached the end of their useful life, Dave sees those tires as having continued value, both economic and environmental.
It's perhaps that ability to see beyond what is - to what can be - that has made Dave both a successful businessman and an actively caring and compassionate person. Among other activities, he's illustrated his commitment to creating a better community by being a member of the YMCA Round Table and Heritage Foundation and by acting as the Director of the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) Hockey Alumni.
Unlike many people who devote their time and resources to trying to combat Alzheimer's disease, Dave and his family have not been directly touched by the disease. His interest in climbing Kilimanjaro stems from the realization that the numbers of those with Alzheimer's disease are growing and will continue to do so as more and more "baby boomers" begin to reach retirement age. It is clear to Dave that Alzheimer's disease is a major medical, social and economic threat to Canada and the world. As such, Dave is committed to raising as much money as he can for research.
At 55, with two adult children and two grandchildren, a lot of people would start thinking about slowing down and enjoying the good life. But a life of leisure's not for Dave, if anything he appears to be ramping up his activities. Climbing Kilimanjaro is just one more adventure for him. In the last couple of years, he's hiked the East Coast Trail in Newfoundland, attended the 60th Anniversary celebration of "D Day" in England, France, Belgium and Holland. Dave has also spent time exploring the highlands of North West and Central Mexico, an area rich in culture and history.
Dave will be asking his friends, colleagues, business associates and just about everyone he comes into contact with to help sponsor his climb. Given his track record, Dave will be a force to be reckoned with, both as a fundraiser and a climber.
To help Dave raise funds for Alzheimer research in Canada, please go to www.alzheimer.ca/english/newsevents/ascent-intro.htm