Leading Sports Figures Unite to Raise Over £300,000 in Aid of Alzheimer’s Society
Monday 28 September, saw leading figures from the world of sport take on a unique endurance challenge at the home of cricket in support of the UK’s leading dementia charity, Alzheimer’s Society.
Taking to the hallowed turf of Lord’s Cricket Ground, 100 people walked 100 laps of the outfield for the charity.
One million people currently live with dementia in the UK, and it’s the leading cause of death.
The inaugural Your Hundred at Lord’s, spearheaded by Alzheimer’s Society Ambassador and Chair of its Sport United Against Dementia (SUAD) Board, Richard Thompson, has raised over £310,000.
Richard has experienced dementia’s devastation first-hand after losing both parents to the condition. As a result, Richard has been instrumental in unifying the world of sport behind dementia, raising much needed awareness and crucial funds, and ensuring cricket remains accessible to people affected by dementia.
In true cricketing-style, the fundraiser featured dedicated breaks for Lunch & Tea before ending with participants walking up the iconic steps into the historic Long Room in the Pavillion for celebratory refreshments.
Joining Richard throughout the day included former England and Arsenal footballer, Martin Keown; TV and Radio presenter, Jamie Theakston, whose father lives with dementia; Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport; Guy Kinnings, Chief Executive Officer of the DP World Tour; Andrew Georgiou, President of Warner Bros. Discovery for the UK and Ireland, and many more.
Richard Thompson, Alzheimer’s Society Ambassador and Sport United Against Dementia Chair & Founder, said: “To see so many people yesterday, from all walks of life and sports unite to raise awareness of dementia, is exactly why Alzheimer’s Society’s Sport United Against Dementia campaign was created.
“Dementia’s devastation is profound and I know this first-hand after losing both parents to the condition – it is what drives me to make a difference.
“Sport has a central role to play in ending dementia’s devastation and we must continue to build on this momentum.
“I’d like to thank every single person who walked, donated and helped raise awareness. This is the first ‘Your Hundred’, not the last. As we look to build this into an annual, global event, I challenge the heads of all the other Cricketing NGB’s to get involved so we can continue to provide support to people affected by dementia today and develop the treatments of tomorrow.”
Martin Keown, former England and Arsenal footballer, said: “My mother, Angela has Alzheimer’s disease and currently resides in a care home. It has been heartbreaking to watch this strong, independent woman deteriorate and become a shell of her former self.
“The effect dementia has on everyone it touches is devastating – not just for the person living with it but their carers and loved ones too.
“For too long, dementia has not been prioritised and lags behind other major health conditions in terms of awareness, research and fundraising. It simply isn’t good enough.
“This is why I’ve supported Alzheimer’s Society and this incredible event. People affected by dementia deserve better and the funds raised will go a long way in providing support and creating a brighter future.”
Michelle Dyson CB, Alzheimer’s Society CEO, said: “We are immensely grateful to Richard, the team at Marylebone Cricket Club, and everyone who took part, for making this event the success it was.
“Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer and too many people are facing dementia without the help they desperately need. The money generously donated as part of this unique event will ensure our support services can continue to be a lifeline for every person affected by dementia.”
With the end of Your Hundred at Lord’s, the curtain closes on World Alzheimer’s Month.
