Kenny ‘has no fears’ for risk of Alzheimer’s
PAT Kenny has said he doesn’t worry he will be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s like his late mum who battled the illness for 14 years.
The Newstalk host, 76, said: “No, I know enough about the science. I talk to Luke O’neill.
“It can happen to everybody. It’s not one of those things you can predict.
“She died a good long time ago now.
“Early Alzheimer’s, there is definitely a family component but ordinary Alzheimer’s, there is no genetic component that they have discovered.”
The EX-RTE presenter was speaking as he helped launch Alzheimer’s Tea Day, which kicks off on May 2.
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is a charity that has always been close to his heart.
In 2010, Pat opened up about his mother Connie, 89, who died in 2008.
“My mother stayed at home for much of that time.
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“What had been keeping her going was being in her own home.”
Over three decades, Tea Day has raised €10million to help support people living with dementia across Ireland, along with their families and carers.
Its 30th anniversary is a significant milestone as statistics show that at least 30 people in Ireland are diagnosed with dementia every day.
Funds raised support services like the Alzheimer’s National Helpline, Daycare programmes, home care, family carer training, social clubs and Alzheimer’s cafes.
Mairead Dillon, head of fundraising for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, said: “Whether you host an event, attend one, or simply donate, every action brings us closer to a future where no one faces dementia alone.
“Together, let’s raise a cup of kindness and make the 30th anniversary of Alzheimer’s Tea Day the most successful yet.”
Register at www.teaday.ie to receive a free toolkit.