Sun Peaks mayor to step down after ALS diagnosis
The mayor of Sun Peaks is planning to resign after a life-changing diagnosis. Al Raine, the first and only mayor ever at the mountain village, was diagnosed with ALS last month. The 82-year-old said he delayed sharing the news with the community and his friends until after a celebration...
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The mayor of Sun Peaks is planning to resign after a life-changing diagnosis. Al Raine, the first and only mayor ever at the mountain village, was diagnosed with ALS last month.
The 82-year-old said he delayed sharing the news with the community and his friends until after a celebration of life for his brother-in-law and after two birthday celebrations, including one for his wife Nancy Greene.
In a statement published to the village website, Raine said this form of the disease, called Bulbar ALS, attacks the face and neck before the limbs. He isn't suffering, however, beyond a weak voice and "deteriorating" speech.
"I will be meeting with some specialists over the next few weeks, and I am hopeful that they will outline what to expect next in the coming months," he said in the statement. "Obviously, the long-term outlook is not good."
He will be working with village council and staff for a smooth transition as he steps down and the village prepares for a byelection.
Raine is having "difficulty with emotional control" in face-to-face discussions. Caused by the disease, he said it's called "emotional lability." The ALS Society of Canada said it's characterized by uncontrolled displays of laughter or crying.
"I want to be out and about in the community and I only have one request. Please no sad facial expressions or sympathy wishes, it is those gestures that will triggers my emotions. Let’s just have some normal day to day discussions, pleased to hear your community thoughts and even your complaints but no expressions of sympathy," Raine said.
Despite his age, and the diagnosis, he has no plans to slow down his active lifestyle in the mountain village.
"I can accept my fate as I truly have lived a wonderful life and at 82, one is close to reaching the end. Enjoyed a wonderful winter skiing this year, 130+ days and no signs of weakness while skiing. Hope to enjoy some tennis this summer," he said.
It's not clear when a byelection might take place or when Raine will officially step down.
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