Iceland Foods Chief To Run London Marathon For Alzheimer’s Research Uk
Iceland Foods Executive Chairman, Richard Walker OBE, will be joining thousands of others running the TCS London Marathon on Sunday 21 April.
The Alzheimer’s Research UK Ambassador hopes to raise much-needed awareness and funds for the UK’s leading dementia research charity, having seen first-hand the heartbreak of dementia.
Richard’s mother, Lady Walker, was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease in 2011 and sadly died in 2021.
Speaking about his experience, the father-of-two said he “can’t rest until we find a way to stop dementia”.
“Dementia devastated my family and robbed my mother of some of the most precious years of her life. I know nothing I can do will replace what we’ve lost, but I can’t rest knowing this condition is causing the same heartbreak to other families.
“We must find a way to stop dementia, which is why I’m proud to be an Ambassador for Alzheimer’s Research UK and taking on the London Marathon next month in support of this vital cause. I hope by doing this, I can raise much-needed awareness to support research efforts.”
The 43-year-old was made an Ambassador of Alzheimer’s Research UK in honour of his ongoing support for the charity.
Since 2011, Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation has raised over £5 million for the UK’s leading dementia research charity.
Richard’s marathon effort comes less than 12 months after he climbed Mount Everest for another dementia cause, the Rare Dementia Support Centre.
“I know running the marathon won’t be easy, especially as I signed up quite last minute and I’m behind where I should be with training! But all the effort to get to race day, and then to the finish line, will be so worth it because we will be taking a step closer towards a cure for dementia.”
“I can’t wait to join thousands of others at the start line, and I wish everyone the best of luck for the final weeks of training.”
If nothing changes, one in two people will be directly affected by dementia – either by developing the condition themselves, caring for someone with it, or both. Alzheimer’s Research UK, the UK’s leading dementia research charity, is determined to find a cure by investing in research to revolutionise the way the condition is treated, diagnosed and prevented.
Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Chief Executive, Hilary Evans, emphasised the significance of Richard and everyone running in the London Marathon to advocate for a cure.
“We’re so grateful to Richard, and all our other runners, for taking on the iconic London Marathon to raise funds for a cure. Too many families have been torn apart by dementia and this cannot go on. Thankfully dementia research is making incredible progress and new treatments are in sight – but the job is far from done.
“Thanks to the unwavering support of people like Richard, and organisations like Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation, Alzheimer’s Research UK will change the ending for everyone affected by dementia. It’s a matter of when, not if. We can’t wait to cheer Richard and everyone else taking part for Alzheimer’s Research UK on the day – good luck!”
