Croydon walkers raise over £18,000 for dementia care
Nearly 100 walkers – including NHS staff, Directors, Non-Executive Directors, and residents, have raised over £18,000 for Croydon Health Charity’s inaugural Move for Good walk, to support dementia care at Croydon University Hospital.
The 10km walk from Lloyd Park to Croydon University Hospital was more than just a physical challenge, it allowed local people to show their support for people living with dementia. Participants walked for loved ones, for patients and to help improve the care environment in Croydon.
This year’s walk supported the Memory Lane Dementia Garden Appeal, the Charity’s flagship campaign to raise £160,000 to build a therapeutic outdoor space at Croydon University Hospital. The garden will offer comfort, dignity, and a sense of home to elderly patients and those with a dementia diagnosis, especially during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Laura Kennedy, Head of Fundraising at Croydon Health Charity said:
"We’ve been blown away by the support. From those who walked the full distance to those who volunteered behind the scenes, cheered from the sidelines, or donated generously, every single person played a vital role in making this event a success. We’re so grateful to everyone who stepped forward and gave their time to help us make the Memory Lane Garden a reality.”
Among the walkers was Rona Nicholson, Non-Executive Director at Croydon Health Services and Chair of the Charity’s Charitable Funds Committee. For Rona, dementia is deeply personal. Her mother lives with Dementia with Lewy bodies, and her best friend of 45 years, Cheryl, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease eight years ago.
Cheryl finds peace in the garden of her care home – a space that calms her and brings moments of joy. But hospital visits can be overwhelming and distressing. That’s why Rona is passionate about the Memory Lane Appeal, which will create a dementia-friendly garden at Croydon University Hospital.
Rona shared:
“Dementia is like losing people a little bit at a time. Helping people feel like themselves again, even if just for a moment – that’s what it’s all about.
“As Chair of the Charity’s Committee, I know that this space could make a real difference to so many of the hospital’s most vulnerable patients, giving people living with dementia the chance to hold onto some connection, even as their memories fade. ”
The Charity continues to seek support to reach its fundraising goal. With your help, the Memory Lane Dementia Garden can become a reality – providing peace, dignity, and comfort for people in Croydon.
If you want to support the team, there’s still time to get your sponsorship in and help us push the total even higher. To donate, simply visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/croydonhikeforhealth
Donate to Croydon Health Services Charity