Fundraisers went the extra mile to raise more than £51,000 during a Watford Memory Walk for the Alzheimer’s Society.
Cassiobury Park was full of blue on Saturday, September 7, as hundreds of the charity's supporters walked to help end the devastation caused by dementia.
More than £51,000 has been raised so far, which will go towards its dementia support and research.
Joining the event was award-winning personal trainer Lavina Mehta MBE, who saw her ‘Nani’ Kasturben Shah struggle with the disease for the last decade of her life.
Lavina, who is also a best-selling author and Alzheimer’s Society ambassador, said: “This was my first time attending a Memory Walk event. The memories will stay with me for some time, it was so moving yet uplifting to see everyone come together, supporting each other, all with the same goal to help make a difference to people living with dementia.”
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Participants completed either a short 3.5km walk, which took them around the park or a longer 9km route venturing into the Whippendell Woods through woodland paths and up hills.
Lavina added: “Through my work, I’m passionate about raising awareness of dementia. The impact of staying active for people with dementia’s quality of life and health is huge, with evidence to suggest that physical activity improves confidence and wellbeing and may slow down mental decline.”
Asif Khan, North Watford county councillor, took part in the walk for the fourth consecutive year. He was joined by West Watford councillor and Labour group leader Nigel Bell and raised £420 for the cause.
Councillor Asif Khan said: "It’s always an honour to take part in the Memory Walk, especially knowing how much it helps those living with dementia and their families. This cause is very close to my heart, and I believe every step we take brings us closer to a future where no one has to face Alzheimer’s alone.
"I’m incredibly thankful to everyone who has supported us over the years and donated so generously. Participating alongside councillor Bell and so many community members reminds us how powerful it is when we come together for such an important cause. I encourage anyone who can to get involved and help make a difference."
There are around one million people living with dementia in the UK including more than 100,000 in the East of England, and the Alzheimer’s Society says thousands of people are facing the realities alone without access to "vital support".
Watford Borough Council has been committed to making the town more dementia-friendly, working closely with local organisations to create an environment that supports those living with the condition.
There’s still time to organise your own Memory Walk throughout September, or to find out more about taking part in a walk next year, visit memorywalk.org.uk
Judith King, Alzheimer’s Society’s head of services, said: “Memory Walk is such a special event in our calendar, bringing people together to walk in memory or in celebration of loved ones.”
Alzheimer's Society provides help and advice for anyone affected by dementia through its support line, online and print information, expert dementia advisers and online community.
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