Thousands joined Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Walk For A Cure series across the UK
Eight walking events – six 5km routes and two multi-distance hikes – saw a total of 3,328 supporters walking with and in honour of their loved ones.
The 5km events took place in Leeds, London, Poole, Birmingham, Cardiff, and Edinburgh while hikers enjoyed longer walks in the Peak District and the Cotswolds.
Together, families, friends and colleagues raised an incredible total of over £500,000 to fund dementia research – making this year’s Walk For A Cure the biggest and most successful yet!
Now in its third year, the event has grown into a nationwide movement of hope and determination and has broken previous fundraising records, with donations more than doubling compared to last year.
Hilary Evans Newton, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, volunteered at Ditchley Park, greeting walkers at the finishing line. She said:
“Witnessing the determination of our supporters hiking and raising funds and awareness for dementia research has been truly energising. It’s been an absolute pleasure meeting so many inspiring people and hearing their remarkable stories.”
She added:
“I’d like to thank each and every one who took part in Walk For A Cure over the summer for standing with Alzheimer’s Research UK. Your support will help us stop dementia in its tracks.”
Alzheimer’s Research UK CEO Hilary Evans Newton and Sean Woodcock MP greeting walkers at the finishing line at Ditchley Park.
Walk together for all those affected by dementia: Jenny, Brenda, and Stephen’s experiences
Also taking part in Walk For A Cure this summer, were our supporters Jenny Foot and Brenda and Stephen Whittle.
Surrounded by beautiful scenery and alongside her friends, Jenny took on the 42km Hike For a Cure in the Peak District in honour of her dad, John, who is living with Alzheimer’s disease.
She said:
“I wanted to do something impactful to help stop this awful illness, so that others, including myself and my family, won’t have to go through the same experience as my dad.
“It was lovely seeing so many supporters gathered for the same purpose, but I also found it very emotional remembering the reason why we were all there.
“The hike was challenging, but we had the best time. Everyone was so friendly and spurred each other on.”
Meanwhile long-term supporter Stephen laced up his boots and took part in our 5km Walk For A Cure event around the grounds of Alexandra Palace in North London.
Stephen pushed his wife Brenda, who is living with Alzheimer’s disease, around the course in her wheelchair.
“There was an exciting atmosphere on the day. It was so encouraging to see many happy and enthusiastic people on the walk.
“We walked with young and old and with pushchairs as well as wheelchairs. The walk was well organised, and the many volunteers were friendly and helpful. We are keen to get involved again and we would certainly encourage others to take part too.”
Stephen added: “Big strides are being made into the search for a cure. We were able to play our part by stepping out and joining in.”
Stephen and Brenda with their family having completed Walk For A Cure at Alexandra Palace in London.]
Jenny and her friends enjoying Hike for a Cure in the Peak District
In every step lies a story
Every pound you raise will help us invest in research, bringing us closer to finding a cure. Who will you walk for?
To find out more and to sign up for next year, visit: Alzheimer’s Research UK : Walk for a Cure Home.