Letter to Editor: Thanks for the Memory Walks

Dear Editor,

Every Autumn, Alzheimer’s Society Memory Walk events across the UK see thousands of people come together to raise money to help defeat dementia.

Sadly, this year, coronavirus meant we had to cancel the large-scale events we all know and love. Instead, we asked people to step out and support us by doing their own personal walks, from July to October, in line with government guidelines.

We’ve been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and generosity of 972 supporters across Wales who signed up and helped raise over £1.2 million for Alzheimer’s Society.

We want to say a big thank you to everyone who took part in Memory Walk this year and made a difference to people affected by dementia.

The pandemic has hit people with dementia the hardest, with many of the 850,000 people living with the condition experiencing crippling loneliness and confusion by losing their much-needed routines. Thousands of carers are facing care home visitor bans or are struggling to get a break.

Our services have been used over 2 million times since lockdown began, showing people need us more than ever. But we’re facing a significant loss of fundraising income because of coronavirus.

As Memory Walk season ends, please consider donating to our Coronavirus Appeal or join one of our next fundraising events, like Elf Day on Friday 4 December or any date that suits you. Sign up for a free fundraising pack at alzheimers.org.uk/ElfDay.

Eirwen Jones

Alzheimer’s Society Head of Region for Wales