Macc FC unveil charity partner
MACCLESFIELD FC have announced Alzheimer’s Society as their official charity partner.
The phoenix club shared the news on Tuesday saying they were determined to play their part in transforming the lives of players past and present who’ve been affected by dementia.
Director of Football Robbie Savage has been an ambassador for the society for a decade after his father Colin died from Pick’s disease, a type of dementia, in 2012.
“My dad was my hero and was struck down by dementia in his prime - it was absolutely devastating for the whole family,” he said. I’ve been an ambassador for Alzheimer’s Society for a decade and with so many of our footballing heroes having also been affected by dementia, I couldn’t just sit back and not act.
“It’s important to me to see this club unite with a charity so close to my heart and that’s why Macclesfield FC will champion Alzheimer’s Society’s Sport United Against Dementia campaign.”
The Sport United Against Dementia campaign aims to harness the power of sport to help those impacted by dementia and to raise funds for support services.
The campaign has been launched after the links between the risk of developing dementia and playing contact sports or heading footballs has increased in recent years.
It also follows the deaths of football icons
Jack Charlton and Nobby Stiles, who both suffered with dementia, and the recent diagnosis of Sir Bobby Charlton.
Dementia patients also make up 70% of the residents in care homes across the country.
Kate Lee, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society said: “We’re hugely grateful to our ambassador Robbie Savage and everyone at Macclesfield FC for lending their support to Sport United Against Dementia.
“We urgently need more answers and the right support for the sporting community where dementia is concerned and their support will help us spearhead change by making sure that the very best support is available to all sports people.
“We look forward to working closely with Macclesfield FC over the coming months and are excited to see what difference we can make for players and fans alike.’
To find out more and to donate visit: alzheimers.org.uk/SUAD