Wrexham resident to take on 13-mile walking challenge in memory of husband

A Wrexham resident has joined thousands of determined Alzheimer’s Society Cymru supporters, all conquering their own walking challenges, to raise vital funds in the battle against dementia.

Anne Fox, 58, is preparing for a gruelling 13-mile trek in the Lake District this summer to support Alzheimer’s Society Cymru’s vital work after sadly losing her husband, Dave, a retired music teacher, to Alzheimer’s disease in December 2020.

She is walking to stop dementia in its tracks and remember her motorbike-loving husband, whose passion for racing saw him win 130 trophies and took them around Europe on their bikes together.

Anne will join thousands of other supporters marching out to raise money in the battle against dementia at five Trek26 locations across the UK this June to September, including Dartmoor, the Brecon Beacons, Stonehenge, London and the Lake District.

The treks, supported by series partners, Regatta, have all been specially adapted to accommodate social distancing and will take place in accordance with current government guidelines.

Anne, who was the primary carer for Dave and both her parents under the same roof, all while working as a nurse, said: “Dave motorbiked all his life, ever since he learned how to ride one. He’d always had a motorbike; they were his absolute life and soul.

“He retired from his job as a music teacher after 36 years, and he loved teaching people how to ride. You would always find him cleaning his bikes and keeping them in top condition.”

Anne’s Trek26 commitment comes at a critical time for those affected by dementia. People with dementia have been worst hit by coronavirus in terms of deaths, both from the virus and knock-on effects of lockdown – thousands have seen their health deteriorate and mental health decline as a result of having little social contact and interruptions to essential care and support.

Thousands of family carers have also been in complete despair because of care home visitor bans and a lack of respite.

Sue Phelps, Alzheimer’s Society Cymru’s country director for Wales said: “The coronavirus pandemic has been devastating for families in Wales. People affected by dementia need us now more than ever, but the pandemic has hit us hard financially, despite an unprecedented demand for our services.

“We want to thank Anne and everyone taking part in a walking event for us across Wales. The money raised will help Alzheimer’s Society Cymru reach and support more people through our vital services, like our Dementia Connect support line, which has been used almost three million times in the UK since March 2020.

“We are in awe of the resilience of supporters like Anne, whose dedication to fundraising for Alzheimer’s Society Cymru ensures that we are able to support those who need it most during this difficult period.”

If you would like to take part in a trek or Memory Walk for Alzheimer’s Society Cymru, visit alzheimers.org.uk/events to sign up today.