A walk that made room for memories

Alzheimer Nederland’s Memory Walk raised more than €332,000 on 20 September, according to an event report from Alzheimer Europe. Around 1,400 people participated, raising money for dementia research and support for those affected by the condition.

Participants could seek sponsorship for routes of 6, 10, 20 or 40 kilometres. Some walked alongside someone living with dementia; others took part in a loved one’s honour. Along the route, a dedicated section invited walkers to reflect on memories. Participants could write a person’s name on a small windmill shaped like a forget-me-not.

Actor and television presenter Buddy Vedder joined the walk with colleagues working on a musical adaptation of Mélissa Da Costa’s Tout le bleu du ciel. His role involves a character with young-onset dementia. Alzheimer Europe reported that he had spoken with people living with dementia to prepare and wanted his production team to develop its understanding too.

The event brought these personal connections together with a shared fundraising effort.

Sources:

• Alzheimer Europe — Alzheimer Nederland’s Memory Walk brings people together