Former boxer takes on dementia and raises vital funds for Alzheimer’s Society Cymru in memory of his late wife

Jeff Burns, a former professional boxer and GMB Union official is no stranger to taking on a challenge and has called dementia as ‘his number one enemy.’ On Sunday 9 July, Jeff and family and friends of his beloved late wife Marlene trekked for 10 miles around Swansea Bay raising vital funds for the charity. Marlene passed away on 27 September 2021 at the age of 75. A sad and sudden end of a courageous but hopeless battle against dementia following her diagnosis in March 2018.

Jeff said ” I welcome the latest news of a breakthrough in the battle against Alzheimer’s disease, even though it has come too late for Marlene. The news is a tremendous step forward in the fight against this indiscriminate and malicious condition.

“Dementia is my sworn enemy, and I feel no forgiveness. My beautiful wife was stolen from me, our family and our friends. She was a good looking, fit and healthy lady who obeyed all the rules in life, she had never smoked or taken drugs and drank in moderation. She maintained a healthy diet and exercised daily which included regular walks along Swansea Bay.

Marlene and Jeff in happier times,Photo credit Jeff Burns

“During the latter period of her illness Marlene would look at me with what I can only describe as an appealing look. I was her champion, surely there was something I could do for her. All I could do was give her my unwavering love and provide all the care that she needed. Sadly, there was no treatment that could repel this malevolent, invasive illness.

“Marlene took her final breath by my side in the early hours of Monday 27 September 2021. Her suffering was over, and all I have left are wonderful memories of our time together, memories that will always be with me.

“Thank you to all those wonderful, caring, compassionate people who have already supported my appeal. I understand that we are all having to tighten our belts in the current economic climate, but organisations like the Alzheimer’s Society will continue to need our financial assistance to intensify its research and development of a cure. “Any donation, however large or small, will be greatly appreciated by me, a great tribute to my dear wife and will be used by Alzheimer’s Society Cymru to improve the chances of finding a cure.”

Jeff and his family have already raised more than £2,500.00 from the walk for Alzheimer’s Society Cymru and you can support his campaign here.

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru, Community Fundraiser Jess Bowring welcomed Jeff’s decision to help raise money for the charity.

She said: “It’s wonderful that Jeff has given his time to support Alzheimer’s Society Cymru. A third of us will develop dementia in our lifetimes, making it the biggest health and social care challenge we face.

“Alzheimer’s Society Cymru is a vital source of support and a powerful force for change for everyone affected by dementia. We want everyone affected by dementia to know that whoever you are, whatever you’re going through, you can turn to us for expert support through practical advice, emotional support, and guidance for the best next step.

“There are over 50,000 people living with dementia in Wales. But we simply can’t reach everyone without the continued support of our incredible fundraisers like Jeff.”

To get support or to find out more about fundraising for Alzheimer’s Society Cymru visit alzheimers.org.uk