I am so happy to have been a Clowndoctor with Hearts and Minds for nearly 4 years and an Elderflower for 3 years. The work is so rewarding and the organisation is so wonderful to work for that I would like to give something back by raising funds by running 10 kilometers in the Women's 10K road race. The programmes in hospitals and hospices and care homes all around Scotland depend on funding to keep the work going and the smiles growing.

As a former carer of a close family member with Alzheimers' I have first hand experience of how humour and imagination and music can light up dark moments and create meaningful connections between people and this is what the Elderflowers can bring to the ladies and gentlemen that we visit.

A bit about Hearts and Minds:

Hearts and Minds is a small charity with a big heart. Launched over 15 years ago we use the performing arts to help improve the healthcare experience. Our Clowndoctors visit children in hospitals and hospices with short/long term illness and complex special needs. They bring happiness, laughter and a sprinkling of magic to these brave youngsters and their families who are going through a tough time. The Elderflowers visit ladies and gents with dementia, bringing comfort and hope through music, storytelling and sensory activities to suit each individuals needs.  Dementia can be very isolating and lonely, so they hope to bring smiles to those who need it most and helping family members to enjoy moments of joy.  Each year we deliver around 14,000 interactions – help us deliver more smiles!