Family joins forces with Alzheimer’s Society to launch Leeds Memory Walk

Three generations of a Leeds family came together at Roundhay Park to encourage people sign up to Alzheimer’s Society’s Leeds Memory Walk which takes place on Saturday 6 September.

Katherine Turner, 39, is taking part in Leeds Memory Walk with her six-year-old daughter Holly. They are walking in support of Grandad John Newell who was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in June at the age of 62. Katherine said:

‘Dad’s diagnosis has been a huge shock as we thought he was too young to be affected by dementia and we hadn’t even heard of frontotemporal dementia before. I’m taking part in Memory Walk to help raise money to fund research for a cure, but also to help fund vital services for people like my dad, who are living with dementia today. Please sign up if you haven’t already.’

Memory Walk is Alzheimer’s Society’s flagship fundraising event which sees walks taking place around the UK throughout the autumn to raise money for people affected by dementia and their carers. It is a day to walk, share and celebrate someone special and everyone walks with one common goal: to defeat dementia.

Katherine, Holly and John were joined at the launch by people with dementia and their carers who attend Armley Grange Day Centre in Leeds. The day centre is run by Alzheimer’s Society and provides support to younger people living with dementia.

Alzheimer’s Society Services Manager, Peter Ruickbie said:

‘Memory Walk is a huge awareness raising event as well as an important fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Society. Roundhay Park is a great venue for this year’s event and we are encouraging people to sign up and help make it a great day out.’

From a four year old to their 80 year old gran and her dog, Memory Walk sees whole families coming together to fight dementia. Participants at the Leeds Memory Walk can choose between a shorter 2km walk or the longer, more challenging 10km walk. Live music, face painting, cakes and refreshments will be waiting for walkers after they cross the finish line.

Alzheimer’s Society Community Fundraiser Ju Lee explained that as well as encouraging people to take part in the walk, they are also looking for volunteers on the day. She said:

‘Memory Walk sees whole families coming together to fight dementia and is an excellent opportunity for people to get together and enjoy a day to remember whatever the weather. Volunteers play a key role on the day and we are now looking for enthusiastic people who are passionate about improving the lives of people living with dementia to join us on the day and help us to make the event a huge success.’