We've chosen Alzheimer's Society because there are several Rotary members with family members affected by this disease. So far it's incurable, though life with it can be improved by various support activities. A dreadful disease, because not only is memory and mental ability affected, but personality tends to change and physical abilities suffer also. It can be that someone you’ve known for years ceases to be that capable, communicative and independent person you knew.

Nationally, Alzheimer's Society does things only a major national charity can do, like influencing government policy and sponsoring and funding research into prevention, treatment, and support for as fulfilling lives as possible.

And they work locally (round here there’s a dementia choir, a support group, and several dementia cafes) with a network of local organisers to stimulate, coordinate and publicise activities, helped by volunteers.

Rotarians have been at various Alzheimer's Society events, and involved in some trials, that have made us aware of just how much the Alzheimer's Society has done and is doing, and that’s why we're asking for your support, as walkers, donors or support crew on 11th July.

Philip Hetherington, Event Organiser (and walker)