Offaly comedian Neil Delamere backs upcoming Alzheimer’s Memory Walk
Offaly comedian Neil Delamere is encouraging people to participate in the third successive Alzheimer’s Memory Walk, supported by Irish Life, which is taking place nationwide on Sunday, September 18.
The Edenderry funnyman is an ambassador for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI), and he highlighted the importance of the fundraising walk, which is being held during World Alzheimer's Month.
"I'm excited to team up with The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and show my support for Alzheimer's Memory Walk. Alzheimer's and dementia is a huge issue for our society," said Neil.
"We can all do our part and walk on Sunday, September 18, to raise much-needed funds for the 500,000 people in Ireland whose families have been affected by dementia.
"The ASI really relies on funds to keep its supports and services going, such as day care, home care, dementia advisers, family carer training, Alzheimer Cafes and social clubs.
"As demand continues to increase, so does the pressure on these support services; every day, at least 30 people are diagnosed with dementia in Ireland – even people in their 30s, 40s and 50s.
"We can all lend a hand and support this important fundraising campaign so more people who are living with dementia in our communities can access the supports and services they need."
The ASI is hoping that 3,000 walkers across Ireland will help to raise €250,000 for vital services that help to support so many people with dementia and their family carers across Ireland.
Participants planning to take part in the walk, wherever they may be, can register online (at www.memorywalk.ie) for a 'walk participant pack' and t-shirt.
People are also being encouraged to share photos and videos of their walk on social media, using the hashtags #ASIMemoryWalk, #LetsWalkTogether and #PowerOfSupport.
Founded in 1982, the Alzheimer Society of Ireland is marking its 40-year anniversary this year.
The ASI is now a national organisation providing support, services and care to the 64,000 people living with dementia and their family carers in Ireland today.