Two Miles for Mary is a fundraiser for seniors' transportation in Prince Albert. (Image Credit: ID 323848261 © Yuri Arcurs | Dreamstime.com)

By paNOW Staff

Two Miles for Mary Fundraiser

For this year’s ‘Mary’ and her family, it’s more than just a ride

Sep 23, 2026 | 1:46 PM

On days Mary Remus doesn’t go to the Herb Bassett Day Centre, her daughter Janet said she often watches the clock, wondering when she can go back.

The 88-year-old Prince Albert woman is this year’s “Mary” for the 39th annual Two Miles for Mary Radiothon fundraiser. Organizers of the transportation program run by the Prince Albert Community Service Centre hope to raise $50,000 to help keep rides affordable, reliable and safe for local seniors.

Seniors Transportation provides approximately 6,000 rides a year in Prince Albert. A ride costs $5, helping seniors get to appointments, run errands and take part in community life.

Mary has relied on the service for more than 10 years. After she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, she and Janet decided the day centre would give her opportunities for activities and social connection. Mary started going once a week. She now attends four days a week, with Seniors Transportation getting her there and home again.

She has made friends at the centre and especially enjoys its music programs. Local musician Donny Parenteau is a favourite when she gets the chance to hear him.

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According to a family profile shared by the Prince Albert Community Service Centre, Janet said Mary also knows the routine of her ride. The drivers make sure she is safely buckled in, listen to her and help her into the day centre. Sometimes, they offer her an arm as they walk inside together.

That familiarity matters to Janet, who is Mary’s full-time caregiver and primary family support. While Mary is at the centre, Janet can attend appointments, take care of things at home and have time for herself.

Janet believes the combination of the day program and reliable transportation has helped her continue caring for Mary at home. Without that support, she said, her mother might need a higher level of residential care.

She hopes continued community support will eventually mean more vehicles, longer service hours and larger vehicles that could better accommodate seniors with limited mobility.

This year’s radiothon starts with a pancake breakfast on Friday, Sept. 25, starting at 6 a.m. at the Heritage Seniors’ Centre. The radiothon will air on 900 CKBI from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and Power 99 FM will also be on location. Donations can also be made at pacsc.com/donate.

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panews@pattisonmedia.com

by paNOW Staff

For this year’s ‘Mary’ and her family, it’s more than just a ride

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