Dementia Australia would like to thank Adelaide Crows midfielder Bryce Gibbs who ‘lost his locks’ and raised almost $30,000 for the Crow’s Children Foundation and Dementia Australia.
Bryce was inspired to take-up the challenge after both he and his fiancé Lauren each lost family members to the condition, which is now the second leading cause of death in Australia.
Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said community fundraisers such as this not only raise much-needed funds for dementia but also raise awareness to help reduce the stigma and social isolation that can be experienced by people living with dementia, their families and carers.
"On behalf of the 425,000 Australians living with dementia, I would like to thank Bryce for his generosity and for sacrificing his iconic hair and for helping Dementia Australia provide education and support as well as improve awareness for dementia," Ms McCabe said.
"I would also like to thank the many supporters and fans of Bryce who donated to his challenge.
"To raise almost $30,000 is a fantastic achievement and Dementia Australia is most grateful. We wish Bryce all the very best for the season ahead."
Bryce lost his locks earlier this month at the Adelaide Football Club in West Lakes. Attendees included Adelaide Crows head coach Don Pyke, Crows player Sam Jacobs, Bryce’s Mum, Julie Gibbs and the three highest donors, Judy Withers, Jake Franic and Sue Dunn, who were invited to cut a part of Bryce’s hair.
Donations are still welcome and can be made at https://give.everydayhero.com/au/bryces-bun-is-done
You can see photos of Bryce ‘losing the locks’ on the Dementia Australia Facebook page.
Dementia Australia is the national peak body for people, of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, their families and carers. It provides advocacy, support services, education and information. An estimated 425,000 people have dementia in Australia. This number is projected to reach more than 1.1 million by 2056. Dementia Australia is the new voice of Alzheimer’s Australia. Dementia Australia’s services are supported by the Australian Government.
(The National Dementia Helpline is an Australian Government Initiative)
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines. ---
