Big Apple run for dementia patients
A former Bath nurse is putting her best foot forward to raise money for a small dementia charity by running the New York Marathon. Surrinder Sandham-bains, 54, from Newbridge, has experienced first-hand the effects dementia has on patients and their families and has self-funded the trip to raise money for Playlist for Life – a charity which uses the power of music to help keep patients connected to themselves and loved ones. The mother of three, is busy training for the mammoth race, which takes place on November 4, and hopes to raise £1,850 of donations through her online justgiving page for the charity which helps people devise a playlist for when the dementia worsens. Playlist for Life, which is based in Glasgow, believes that when listening to music the brain lights up like a fireworks display and the sound reaches parts of the brain which haven’t been damaged by dementia. The charity says research has proved that music can bring back feelings, memories and sometimes abilities that the patient had thought lost. It can also reduce the use of heavy drugs and restraints and manage mood and emotions. Surrinder, who now works as a health visitor, said: “I have worked as a nurse with individuals who have suffered from the effects of dementia and the impact that sensory experiences can have on those who have this condition is something I have witnessed myself. “I firmly believe in the positive benefits that having access to a personalised playlist can have on individuals. It can also help family members connect with their loved ones. “I wanted to raise funds for Playlist for Life because of the good work it is doing and thought raising money through running would be ideal as I been running for 20 years and I loved the sense of freedom and adventure it gives me. “Running the New York Marathon has been a dream of mine for many years and I am really excited about having this opportunity and to help raise money and awareness for such a special charity.” If you would like to support Surrinder in running the New York marathon and help raise money for Playlist for Life please visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/surrinder-bains4