Hobart sisters Laura Eaton and Jane Burnett of Lindisfarne, are encouraging their community to join them in supporting people living with dementia by signing up for the 2020 Hobart Memory Walk & Jog.
Inspired by their mum who lived with younger onset dementia, Laura and Jane are participating in this year's Memory Walk & Jog to support people impacted by dementia.
"We know our mum would want us to do all we can to raise awareness of and money for the cause, because helping others would be at the front of her mind," the sisters said.
"Memory Walk & Jog is also a great opportunity to interact with other people who have gone through the same journey, or are at the beginning of their journey. Being there amongst people who are all involved for the same reason is really empowering. Just one conversation can change someone's day!"
Sadly, their mum passed away in 2017 at the age of 62.
Memory Walk & Jog is Dementia Australia's largest fundraising initiative, and raises much-needed funds to help provide invaluable support, education and resources for people impacted by dementia in Hobart and across Australia.
The 2020 Hobart Memory Walk & Jog will take place on Sunday 22 March at Regatta Grounds, Hobart.
Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said the course is family-friendly, and no matter your age or level of fitness, everyone is encouraged to participate and join in the fun.
"We are delighted to be returning to Hobart and look forward to seeing as many locals as possible turn out for a day that's fun for all the family," Ms McCabe said.
"They're fabulous gatherings of people impacted by dementia who get together, walk or run to raise money, share stories and everyone comes away from the day knowing they are not alone."
Today, there is an estimated 2,200 people living with dementia in the federal electorate of Franklin. With that figure projected to increase to about 3,700 by 2058, events like Memory Walk & Jog play an important role not only in funding support, but also in raising awareness of dementia.
This year, participants at Hobart can choose to take part in a 2km, 6km or 8km walk or jog, and are invited to help us reach the $55,000 fundraising target.
There will be prizes for the top fundraisers, as well as raffles, plenty of entertainment, food stalls and special guest appearances from Memory Walk & Jog mascot Al the Elephant.
Registrations are now open for all Memory Walk & Jog events across Australia.
