Their achievement is a celebration of kindness, community and the power of people coming together to support one another.
From the stunning surroundings of Lichfield Cathedral to the historic grounds of Tamworth Castle, Zoe Sykes and her sister Helen took on an inspiring fundraising challenge that captured the very best of community spirit.
By completing the run and raising an amazing £1,710 for the Lichfield Memory Café, the pair have made a huge difference to a cause that is incredibly close to their hearts. As a volunteer at the cafe, Zoe sees first-hand the positive impact the group has on people living with dementia and their carers. The fundraising challenge was inspired by the people she meets every week, and the friendships built through the cafe.
Home Instead, based in Tamworth, Lichfield and North Warwickshire, run weekly Memory Cafés for those living with dementia. They offer a warm, welcoming space that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people living with dementia, as well as their caregivers.
The Lichfield Memory Café runs every Thursday at the Methodist Church. It offer arts and crafts, quizzes, music therapy and sing-alongs, all of which help keep the brain active and may slow memory decline. Regular participation can reduce depression and anxiety, which are common among people with dementia, and helps to reduce feelings of loneliness.
Caregivers can also connect with others, share stories and find emotional support.
Having cared for their mum, Zoe and Helen have experienced first-hand how dementia affects not just the individual, but everyone around them. That experience has inspired them to give back to a service that provides comfort, connection and moments of joy during incredibly difficult times.
Their achievement is about far more than reaching a fundraising target. It is a celebration of kindness, community and the power of people coming together to support one another.
The money raised will help the Memory Café continue providing activities, entertainment and support that make such a difference to families across the local area. It also shines a spotlight on the incredible work volunteers and organisers do behind the scenes.
The response to the challenge has been fantastic, with supporters cheering on from start to finish. Zoe and Helen’s determination and positivity has inspired many people, and shown just how much the Memory Café means to the community.
Fundraising efforts like this help ensure that people living with dementia and the people who care for them, can continue to enjoy friendship, support and special shared experiences.
Lichfield Memory Café’s morning session is currently full, and due to high demand, it has added an afternoon session from 1.30pm-3.30pm.
The session costs £4 per person (the individual living with dementia must be accompanied by a friend, carer or loved one). It takes place at the Methodist Church, 30 Tamworth Street, Lichfield, WS13 6JJ.
Simply turn up – there’s no need to book!
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