A sunrise labyrinth walk will be held along the beach at Bargara this month to honour those living with dementia.
Cynthia Hoogstraten is the organiser behind the DIY Memory Walk or Jog, which raises vital funds for Dementia Australia.
“The sunrise labyrinth walk will be an opportunity for carers and community members to walk in honour of a loved one and to raise vital funds for Dementia Australia,” she said.
“A labyrinth walk is a wonderful way to mindfully take steps as a memorial and actively benefit an excellent cause, that is available for everyone to access for information and support.”
Dementia Australia represents an estimated 459,000 Australians living with dementia and the almost 1.6 million Australians involved in their care.
Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia and there is no cure.
Cynthia said the event was something that hit close to home, with her own father having lived with dementia.
“My personal journey of dementia with my Dad started after the sudden death of my mother,” she said.
“I witnessed the slow decline in my father over the years that followed.
“I did not understand the trajectory of dementia at the time, but I was determined to learn what I could about the insidious disease.”
Cynthia embarked on a two-year Diploma study through the University of Tasmania which helped her better understand how to respond to her father's needs.
She said this year's fundraising event would mark the third year of the DIY Memory Walk or Jog.
“Your fundraising for this event provides vital support services to the estimated 87,700 people with dementia in Queensland,” Cynthia said.
“Funds raised also drives our non-stop research partnerships, where talented scientists, can work towards a possible future without dementia.”
- Date: Sunday, 18 of April at 6am to 7am
- Where: On the beach opposite Ricks Café, Bargara Esplanade
- Tickets: $10
Register for the event here.
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