Walkers to light up the night sky raising money to fight dementia

A woman and her friends will be among those lighting up the night sky as they walk to raise awareness of dementia.

Genevieve Fernandes, from Tooting Broadway, will join others for the Alzheimer’s Society Glow Walk on Friday, March 10, to help raise vital funds.

The charity encourages people to sign up and shine a light on dementia by adding glitter, neon and glow sticks to their attire on the night.

There are more than 79,000 people estimated to be living with dementia in London, one of whom is Genevieve’s 81-year-old father, Domnic, who Genevieve lives with and who suffers from both Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

Genevieve, who has signed up to walk with her family and friends, said: “Four years ago I noticed my dad was getting muddled such as thinking he had taken a shower or brushed his teeth, when I knew he hadn’t.

“It was tricky to convince my dad something was wrong, but eventually he got diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

“Dad has become more disorientated and confused. He doesn’t understand things you tell him, repeating the same question 10 minutes after asking, and gets my daughter and I mixed up.

“He will mention a memory to my daughter about her childhood, but it actually happened in mine.

“He fell over and broke his back and needs physiotherapy, but forgets the physio’s advice because of his short-term memory. If you ask him to move his left foot, he will move his right instead.”

Despite these challenges, Genevieve insists her dad retains his sense of humour and passion for singing, while he taps his toes to his favourite songs. She is also grateful to the support her family receives from Alzheimer’s Society.

She said: “Alzheimer’s Society helped me immensely when dad was first diagnosed and still do now. I am always being sent information and know who to call if I am feeling low or need advice or practical support.

“They are supporting my dad with dementia primarily but also myself, husband and daughter. London’s Glow walk is a way for us to give back to the charity that helped us when needed most.”

Whether it’s to remember a loved one or spend time with family and friends for a good cause, the Alzheimer’s Society is urging walkers of all ages and abilities to join Genevieve at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park from 7pm.

Sign up for London Glow walk or find out more at alzheimers.org.uk/Glow

Pictured top: Genevieve Fernandes with her father (Picture: Alzheimer’s Society)