Louise Griffiths - London Marathon 2016

Hello you lovely people! I'll be running the London Marathon in April and am wanting to support the Healthy Living Club. They are a local organisation, based in Lambeth, who have essentially created a 'dementia-centred community' for people living with dementia, and their carers. Many of us know (or have known) someone who has been affected by dementia, and are aware that this can be challenging, often psychologically and emotionally, for the individual and their family/friends. This community allows people with dementia and their carers to come together with people in the same situation, but also with others; the volunteers and the elderly residents of the extra-care home where they meet consider themselves equal members of the group and, together, everybody engages in activities that alleviate the symptoms of dementia. The focus is on what people with dementia can do. The Club also offers an environment that enables people to socialise with others, which is important for anyone's psychological well-being. For me, it's wonderful to know that there are places like the Healthy Living Club that allow people with dementia a space in the community, and where dementia carries no stigma. The organisation relies solely on donations and on the tireless fundraising efforts of the very volunteers who run it. So any contribution, no matter how big or small, will be hugely appreciated. They will also undoubtedly act as a humongous boost to get me round the 26.2 miles which I will be embarking upon on 24th April! Thank you so much for your support :o)