Alzheimer’s Society Memory Walk - Memory Walk is a series of sponsored walks held across the UK every year. It's free to sign up and open to all. Every year, thousands of dedicated people come together to walk for a future where dementia no longer devastates lives.
BlueKit’s Memory Walk - 6th October 2024
There’s something truly special about standing alongside friends and family, joining together for a charity event filled with inspiring and heart-warming stories. Taking part in the amazing Memory Walk at London, hosted by the Alzheimer’s Society, was one of the most memorable experiences we’ve ever had.
The day started off alarming as we looked reluctantly at the weather forecast. Though rainy skies were warned of, and grey clouds loomed over London in the early morning, the BlueKit team set off its journey to Potter’s Field Park. As we arrived, greeted by stunning views of the River Thames and that famous landmark you might've seen in a movie or two, - The Tower Bridge - the air became filled with the sounds of laughter and music. Hundreds of volunteers in blue t-shirts gathered around, ready to set off for their walk. And if you happened to be nearby, you might’ve mistaken it for a Smurfs convention!
Though I did happen to see a wizard…so I would understand the mix up!
After some friendly chit-chat with both new and familiar faces, and a couple glances over the refreshment and merchandise stalls, it was time for the dreaded Zumba warm-up. The dance moves may not have been one for the album, but the music had everyone in the mood to shake and twist, (so, as Jackson 5 have reminded us many times before...you can always blame it on the boogie!).
The afternoon hour struck within a blink of an eye and there we were standing at the start line ready to set off. People of all ages, race, and cultures, became united within that moment, a representation of a community and its support, all blanketed with hopes for a cure, a breakthrough or even just a step forward.
As we walked from street to street, herds of joyful laughter and small talk filled the air, and if we ever felt tired for a few seconds, we were greeted by amazing volunteers that continued to cheer us on at every stop and turn of the path, so the excitement reignited within us.
Within a couple of hours, we crossed the finish line, overwhelmed with joy for the cause we had supported. Photographers snapped away, capturing our excitement as we reached the end, while staff greeted us with medals! We proudly held them high, commemorating the moment with a group photo that will forever be part of BlueKit's story. As the crowd dispersed to reunite with family and friends, we reflected on the incredible day we’d shared and the impact of the funds we raised thanks to the generosity of our supporters. These small yet meaningful efforts remain at the heart of what we do at BlueKit Medical, enhancing patients’ journeys to easier, more comfortable lives.
Understanding dementia and the challenges faced by loved ones is never easy, but one thing became clear at the Memory Walk: when we all come together, we can be unstoppable. This was evident at the event. What started as our small group of 16 team members quickly grew as we joined hundreds (maybe even thousands!) of others who had also come out in support.
A quote struck me from Benjamin Mee’s We Bought a Zoo: he said, ‘Sometimes all you need is twenty seconds of insane courage…. And I promise you, something great will come of it.’ Back then, didn’t realise how true that was, but now I see it everywhere. If you’ve ever doubted whether your donation makes a difference to any charity, think about what BlueKit has achieved. We started with a bold target of £500 thinking it was a stretch. But with just a little courage and action, we've surpassed £1,500 - and the donations carry on!
As we continue to raise money, we hope for a world where aging does not seem so scary, rather a blessing, to experience the beauty of life. We hope sharing our story can inspire others to take that twenty seconds of bravery and choose to do something great for those in need!
BlueKit would like to give a special thanks to all the kind souls that walked with us and incredible sponsors that have helped us reach so far!
- Aliza Khaleel, BlueKit Medical.