We signed up for Walk For A Cure because we want to support the research into finding a cure for dementia.
We were really excited about taking part in the London event for Alzheimer’s Research UK as it was a great location with views across London.
There was a great buzz from all the walkers with people chatting to each other and sharing experiences.
We all had something in common - we knew someone living with or having lived with dementia. It was a very well organised event and we will definitely do it again.
– Jacky Schloss and her sister Caroline, walking in honour of their parents, who have both been impacted by dementia.
I felt very chuffed and proud to be there, that people had sponsored me and that my friends came to support. I was also proud to be raising awareness of dementia.
I really enjoyed being together with other people and I felt safe. I wasn’t even tired as I approached the finish line. I’d definitely do it again.
I want to see developments in research so I and other people can get an earlier and more accurate diagnosis.
Dementia is crippling and in a strange way it feels worse than falling over and hurting yourself. Dementia is there all the time, and a cure would take away the hurt.
– Barry Gray, who is living with dementia, took part in Walk For A Cure in 2024
Join us and make a difference
I joined the walkers in memory of my husband, Clive, because I want to do everything I can to help Alzheimer’s Research UK raise awareness of dementia and the funding needed to support research.
Clive developed dementia in his 40s over 30 years ago. When we finally got a diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) after years of searching, much less was known about FTD and other forms of dementia, and treatments were limited. I wanted answers to help people in the future, so I went back to university and did my PhD aged 57 to become a dementia researcher.
When I work, I sit at the computer and look at images of brains for my research, so my favourite part of the event has been meeting and talking to people who are living with and are affected by dementia. There is a real sense of community. Plus, it gets you out into some lovely countryside.
I took part in the walk because it's something I could do. There's no way I could run or even walk a marathon for the charity – that's not me at all – but I can walk 5km and I’ve met a lot of people who can walk 5km so it's accessible for many.
For anyone who is thinking of taking part in a Walk For A Cure event, I would say go for it! It's fun, friendly and it's easy. Raising funds and awareness is so important because we need to overcome dementia by finding a cure. I have two grandsons now – I don’t want them growing up in a world with dementia.
– Dr Helen Beaumont, walking in memory of her husband, Clive, who had frontotemporal dementia
It was well set up - lots of friendly staff and a free t-shirt and lanyard of your choice!
We also got the kids an ice cream too, which was a big bonus!
People need to know that Alzheimer’s can happen to absolutely anyone, just as cancer can.
The more funds we can put into research, the sooner we can find a cure for it.
Being involved in the health and fitness industry for over a decade I am a big believer in all forms of exercise being integral to a strong and healthy heart. And a clear and focussed mind.
Walking is one of the easiest forms of exercise and is so often overlooked.
There is no reason why anyone can’t do this event. It was super accessible, there were marshals at regular intervals and plenty of spots to sit and rest.
I couldn’t recommend this walk enough for families young and old! We chatted, played with the kids and enjoyed being out in the fresh air for a change.
It’s one of the easiest ways to give back to yourself, your mental health and your physical wellbeing.
– Hat Hewitt, walking in memory of her mum who was diagnosed with dementia aged just 57
