Mum and son join charity walk for beloved ‘Nanna’
A woman who has seen the ‘souldestroying’ decline of her ‘Nanna’ is donning her walking boots alongside her seven-year-old son, Kian, to raise vital funds for Alzheimer’s Society next month.
Claire Bance will put her best foot forward along the Bath canal path to support her ‘Nanna’ Margaret, who is living with dementia.
The 36-year-old florist said: “It’s so hard to put into words the love I have for Nanna. From as early as I can remember she has held a huge place in my heart and always will.
“It’s nothing short of soul destroying seeing her struggle and be trapped by this awful disease.
“As her memory slowly slips away from her, I find the best thing is to hold on tight to my most fond ones.
“From curling up on the sofa resting my head on her cold, soft arm; her heavy-handed hair washing and tugging the hair brush through my hair, stroking her perfectly soft hands (always a favourite pastime), those soft hands always dipping into her handbag to steal a sneaky Midget Gem or 10 on the sly, our midnight phone chats when I had some darker times: she’s always been a wonderful ear, and full of cheeky laughs when I needed them.
“She is a blooming gem, makes me laugh, forgets us all, but remembers I’m a florist on her birthday!
“Nanna Margaret is, and always will be, a remarkably beautiful diamond in my heart. I’d do anything to help her or raise awareness for what she and so many others are going through, and for everyone who works tirelessly to ensure their comfort and security in their final chapters.”
Claire will join thousands of supporters stepping out across the country throughout September to support Alzheimer’s Society’s vital work and is encouraging others to join her by lacing up their boots to raise crucial funds for the charity.
Marion Child, Alzheimer’s Society head of services, South West, said: “This autumn we are calling on family, friends and colleagues from across Bath to put their best foot forward for Alzheimer’s Society.
“The last year has been tough for everyone, but for people living with dementia the impact of coronavirus has been catastrophic and every step our fundraisers take will make a huge difference by providing a lifeline for people affected by dementia who have been worst hit.
“We are in awe of amazing supporters like Claire and Kian whose fundraising efforts help fund our services which have been used over five and a half million times since the first lockdown began in March 2020, showing people need us now more than ever.”
Thousands of supporters have already registered to take part in the 19 Memory Walks which will be held across the UK this autumn. Supporters can also opt to walk on their own, or with loved ones, on the paths, pavements, parks or pebbles in a location of their choosing throughout September.
Visit memorywalk.org.uk to find out more about organising your own Memory Walk or taking part in Alzheimer’s Society’s organised events this autumn.