Sun Peaks mayor will step down following ALS diagnosis

The mayor of Sun Peaks has informed his community that he has been diagnosed with a rare form of ALS.

In an open letter to the community, Al Raine, 82, announced that he will soon be stepping down from his position after learning he has been diagnosed with Bulbar ALS.

Raine explained that this form of the disease attacks the face, throat and neck areas before the limbs.

“I delayed informing the community and friends as we had ‘celebrations of life’ for my brother in law John and my former ski team manager, Ed Champagne as well as Nancy’s recent birthday,” Raine said in his letter, dated May 13.

“Presently, I am not suffering and other than my weak voice and deteriorating speech, I am fine. Swallowing is restricted a little but still OK.”

Raine said he will be meeting with specialists over the next few weeks, which he said will “outline what to expect next in the coming months.”

Raine said he will work with council and municipal staff to make sure there will be a “smooth transition” when he formally steps down.

“Obviously, the long-term outlook is not good,” Raine said in his letter.

“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 has indicated he is having difficulty with emotional control in face-to-face discussions, something that is called emotional lability, but has asked his community to continue to have normal day-to-day discussions if they see him out and about.

“Pleased to hear your community thoughts and even your complaints but no expressions of sympathy," Raine said, signing off his letter with “sorry to be the bearer of bad news.”.

He was elected as mayor in 2022 by acclamation.

Raine has served as Sun Peaks’ mayor since the resort municipality was incorporated in 2010.

When it comes time for him to step down, the municipality will hold a by-election but no sold timeframe has been determined at this time.