Walking in memory

More than 200 people are expected to take to the streets of Mount Maunganui on September 23 to raise awareness of dementia.

Mount Maunganui will be awash in a sea of purple on September 23 as people take to the streets to raise awareness of dementia.

The Alzheimers Tauranga Memory Walk, now in its fourth year, falls during World Alzheimer's Month and is for people of all ages and abilities to honour family and community members that have been or are affected by dementia.

Funds raised will assist Alzheimers Tauranga to support people living with dementia, carers, family, whanau and friends to live as well as possible. The organisation works with individuals and families to provide personalised education and support, and offers support groups, activity groups and a volunteer companion and befriender programme.

General manager Julie Sargisson says more than 200 people are expected to take part in the Memory Walk this year.

'It's primarily to raise awareness around dementia because it's a massive issue for those who have got it or are supporting someone who has got it, but also for society because the number of people with dementia has increased and will keep increasing as our population ages.”

The Memory Walk leaves from Coronation Park at 10am on Saturday, September 23 along a 4km course into Salisbury Park, along Pilot Bay, across the front of Mauao on Adams Ave, then down Marine Parade, up Banks Ave and back to Coronation Park. The route is wheelchair, family and dog friendly.

Cost is $5 for individuals and $20 for a family, with all participants receiving a purple Memory Walk t-shirt. To register visit www.memorywalktauranga.eventbrite.co.nz Registration can also be made on the day from 9am.

For more information contact Julie on (07) 577 6344 or email tauranga@alzhiemers.org.nz

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