Care Staff Complete A 26-Mile Charity Walk To Raise Money For The Alzheimer’s Society

Two motivated care workers are celebrating after completing a 26-mile charity walk to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society ahead of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.

Having seen first-hand how Alzheimer’s can affect individuals and their families, carers Emma Leahy (40) and Emma McLellan (42), who are both employed by CHD Care at Home’s South West Surrey branch, wanted to make a difference and raise awareness of the condition.

The challenge involved completing a demanding 26-mile walk around the Lake District, which saw the dynamic duo put on their hiking boots to combat rocky terrain. Overcoming both physical and mental challenges, the pair were delighted to raise almost £2000 for the Alzheimer’s Society in the process.

Discussing their reasons for taking on the challenge, Emma Leahy said: “I have worked in care for over six years now. In that time, I have seen directly how a condition such as Alzheimer’s can affect individuals and their families.

I find it difficult seeing customers deteriorate that I have gotten to know and have developed a bond with. I consider them to be a part of my family. I was inspired to participate in a fundraising skydive for the Alzheimer’s Society last year, which was brilliant – and I wanted to set myself a similar challenge this year.”

When asked how she felt upon completion of the challenge, Emma McLellan said, “Crossing the finish line gave me an immense sense of pride and achievement. We started the walk at Dalemain in the Lake District and finished there 26 miles later.

It was the hardest walk I have ever done, but it was even worse for my colleague, Emma, as she developed a knee injury 10 miles in. With encouragement and an overwhelming surge of motivation, we supported each other to the finish line. I will never forget that moment of euphoria, as the realisation hit that we had done it!”

Paul Milton, Regional Manager for CHD Care at Home, said: “We are incredibly proud of Emma Leahy and Emma McLellan for their fundraising efforts. We see them go above and beyond in taking great care of our service users every day. This fantastic accomplishment shows their dedication to improving the lives of others, too. We are honoured to have them as part of our team and are excited to see how they continue to develop in the future.”