Hundreds unite against dementia at Bristol Memory Walk

Shazza Parsons (46) from Bradley Stoke and Lucy Loader (34) from Tytherington joined more than 1,400 people to unite against dementia at Alzheimer’s Society’s Bristol Memory Walk this weekend (Saturday 23 September).

Shazza whose uncle, Peter Read, died with dementia in 2014 and Lucy whose mum, Sally-Ann, has been living with Pick’s disease (a form of dementia) for nine years, cut the ribbon dressed as Donald and Daisy Duck to start the walk.

Shazza Parsons, who was dressed as Donald Duck, has raised over £2,500 for Alzheimer’s Society by taking part in Memory Walk over the last four years, said:  “I love Memory Walk. The atmosphere is fantastic! We’re all here because we’ve been affected by dementia in some way. It’s emotional, really emotional, especially when you listen to the stories from other walkers about why they’re taking part. I’ll keep coming as long as Alzheimer’s Society keeps organising the walks. It was hot today (in the suit) but well worth it.”

Lucy Loader, who was dressed as Daisy Duck, added: “You’re not on your own at Memory Walk. Dementia is a silent, hidden condition. You look around and there’s lots of other people here who are affected and painting on a smile for the day. It feels like a big, warm hug. I want to see more awareness and research and hope one day there will be a cure for dementia.”

Lucy and Shazza were joined by their friends Laura Merrifield and Lezette Nieiri.

Of the top 10 causes of death, dementia is the only one we can’t prevent, cure or slow down, but funding of research is far too low. Alzheimer’s Society is the UK’s leading dementia charity and the Memory Walk aims to raise £9million nationally this year and bring together more than 110,000 walkers across the generations.

Claire Haines, Alzheimer’s Society Memory Walk Officer, commented: “Dementia is set to be the 21st century’s biggest killer. I am so glad that people from across Bristol stepped out in their hundreds to improve the lives of people living with the condition.  Every pound raised will help Alzheimer’s Society provide information and support, improve care, fund research and create lasting change for people affected by dementia.  We are committed to spending at least £150 million over the next decade on dementia research to improve care for people today and find a cure for tomorrow.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped make this year’s Memory Walk such a huge success.”

For further information about Alzheimer’s Society including details about local services, please visit alzheimers.org.uk

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