A care manager, who works with families by providing personalised live-in care services to their loved ones, completed the Watford Memory Walk on September 11 to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Society.
Gail Neville took part in the walk in memory of her late mother, Maureen, who passed away in 2016 at the age of 76. Money raised by Gail will go towards funding the vital support, advice and services Alzheimer’s Society provides.
Alzheimer’s Society organises the sponsored Memory Walks every year to support the 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK.
The walks give people an opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of those affected by the condition, with 500 people taking part in the Watford Memory Walk last weekend.
Gail said: ‘Alzheimer’s Society and everything they do is close to my heart.
‘I wanted to show my appreciation and support for the work they do in communities across the UK, and the Memory Walk was a fantastic way to raise money and awareness for a charity that is a lifeline for so many.’
Gail is responsible for the day-to-day management of care for Promedica24’s clients living across the south of England, ensuring they flourish within their communities and live safely and well in the comfort of their own homes.
As a Dementia Friend with Alzheimer’s Society, Gail raises understanding of what it’s like living with the condition in her local communities.
Gail added: ‘I started my career in care after my mum passed away, and I’ve since strived to increase awareness of what it’s like to live with dementia in my role as a care manager and by joining the Dementia Friends initiative with my colleagues.
‘At Promedica24, we support many people living with dementia in their own homes. We create a safe and comfortable environment for them to live independently, remaining close to family, friends, and community ties.
‘Families and their loved ones living with dementia are amongst some of the most affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, so there’s never been a more important time to show our support.
‘I walked in memory of mum and for all my clients and their families who have been affected by dementia. The money raised will support an incredible cause, and each penny will take us a step closer to a world without dementia.’
Claire Stockwell-Lance, Area Manager at Alzheimer’s Society, said: ‘We are in awe of our incredible fundraisers, including Gail, who turned out in their hundreds at Cassiobury Park on September 11.
‘The pandemic has been catastrophic for people with dementia, with Alzheimer’s Society’s services, like our Dementia Connect support line, used more than six million times since lockdown began in March 2020.
‘Every pound raised from the Watford Memory Walk will help Alzheimer’s Society provide information and support, improve care, fund research and create lasting change for people affected by dementia.
‘I would like to say a big thank you to Gail and to all our fundraisers for uniting against dementia.’
Photo Credit – Arek Adeoye