At Wollaton Park this weekend as more than 1,000 walkers came together to support everyone affected by dementia and to raise funds for vital support services and groundbreaking research.
Joining the event in Nottingham on Saturday 10 October was BAFTA award-winning actor and Alzheimer’s Society Ambassador, Vicky McClure MBE. On arrival, walkers were treated to a live performance by Vicky McClure’s ‘Our Dementia Choir’, which lifted everyone’s spirits ahead of the walk.
Walking in memory of her Nana Iris, Nana Jean, Grandad Ralph and and all the ‘Our Dementia Choir’ members, Vicky said:
“This is my fifteenth Memory Walk and every year I come back for the sense of community and mutual understanding that everyone who has experienced the devastation of dementia shares. The sense of togetherness you get from this event is so moving. I always look forward to Memory Walk as the atmosphere is full of understanding, love and music!”
“We walk side-by-side, sharing our experiences along the way with others. No one should face dementia alone. It makes a huge difference coming to Memory Walk and knowing that everyone around you understands. I walked not only for my grandparents’ past, but also in support of the wonderful singers and carers of ‘Our Dementia Choir’ past and present, who are a constant source of joy and inspiration and for a future where dementia no longer devastates lives.”
People taking part completed either a short 2km stroll around the lake or a 6km route, taking them around more of the park including grass and woodland paths.
Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer. Nottingham Memory Walk brought together carers, people living with dementia, volunteers, fundraisers and Alzheimer’s Society staff who all have a role to play in tackling the biggest health crisis of our time.
There are currently around a million people living with the condition, including an estimated 74,000 in the East Midlands with thousands more caring for someone with dementia.
Tom Carter, Alzheimer’s Society Local Services Manager for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said:
“It was fantastic to see so many people come together for Nottingham Memory Walk. Every person taking part had their own reason for walking, and that shared sense of purpose was felt throughout the day.
“It will take a society to beat dementia and Memory Walk is a perfect example of what society in action looks like. Everyone who takes part is helping us get closer to a world where dementia no longer devastates lives.”
If you’re worried about dementia, Alzheimer’s Society is here to help. Call their Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456. To find out more about Memory Walk and other events visit alzheimers.org.uk/fundraise
