The Dementia Experience - Moroccan Adventure

WE DID IT! Bit broken but chuffed to bits to have made it.

On 12th October, we headed to Morocco to trek 50km over 3 days in the High Atlas Mountains- not just as a physical challenge, but as a powerful symbol of resilience, love, and determination. We walked for those we love & for family members who give so much every single day and in honour of those they love who live with dementia. Watching someone you love change is incredibly hard, and the courage it takes to adapt cannot be underestimated. This life-changing adventure gave us all the chance to recharge, reflect, and turn personal experiences into something powerful and meaningful. All funds raised will support the work of The Dementia Experience- by donating, you’ll be helping families stay connected & supported in colourful, welcoming environments filled with warmth & positivity.

TEAM MEMBERS: WHY WE SIGNED UP
*Edith Tankus:  "I'm coming into this late(!).  In a week’s time, I’ll be joining a brilliant bunch of people in Morocco, trekking for 3 days across the Atlas Mountains to raise vital funds for The Dementia Experience CIC. 🏔️❤️ I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work for this incredible, heart-led organisation. My own mother has been living with dementia for the past 14 years. She and my dad both live in Toronto, and through TDE, I feel a little closer to them and more connected to their journey. The Dementia Experience brings people living with dementia, their loved ones and carers together with incredible artists, in beautiful, light-filled spaces, to experience improv, movement, music and art. When loneliness and isolation sets in these programs offer a refuge of creativity and connection for people who deserve so much more of it. I’d be incredibly grateful for any donation, however big or small. Every contribution will help support this important work. Thank you so much for your generosity and support. ❤️"

*Sarah Brady: "in 2022 my beautiful mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Mum was always the life and soul and has had a full and wonderful life. Since her diagnosis her world has become a lot smaller. We tried lots of different groups and activities and it was just not her. That is until we found The Dementia Experience. Becoming part of this fabulous group of people has given us our mum back as during these sessions she shines like she used to. For those who know me are well aware that I love a plush hotel and my creature comforts so in doing this challenge I will be totally out of my comfort zone. Please help me to raise as much money as I can for this wonderful cause."

*Miranda Gowlland: "I'm taking on this challenge, and the inevitable prospect of sore legs, in honour of my Mum who is living with Alzheimer's. She hasn't directly benefited from The Dementia Experience's work, but I've seen firsthand how valuable and needed their work is, and I'm hoping together we can raise a lot of funds to continue this and to bring further moments of joy and connection to people impacted by dementia."

*Carla Smith: "Being part of the Dementia Experience has been one of the most rewarding and incredible experiences of my life. To witness Dementia first hand has been difficult and often moving. Yet to also see how music can ignite someone's soul and reconnect loved ones has been utterly breathtaking.  I have spent a life time dreaming of adventure and seeing the world and so when I was offered the chance to walk through the Atlas Mountains of Morocco AND raise money for this incredible charity, I had to say yes. What an experience! I can't wait."

*Jackie Crammond:  "In 1979 at 17 years old, a psychiatric student nurse, I found myself in a ward in an old Victorian institution, with 60 patients, all with severe dementia. Although it came as a complete shock that is where I learned my “basic“ nursing care & at that time, that was all we could give. When I compare then to now, the advances we see in the management and quality of life for those living with dementia have improved dramatically. The Dementia Experience provides opportunities to allow people to maintain their dignity, find times of joy and laughter whilst supporting carers with compassion and kindness. My grandpa was my hero. Strong, reliable, capable. Dementia diminished him and caused our family so much pain as we witnessed him deteriorate into a shadow of who he once was. We lost him many years before he passed.
I’m taking on the Atlas Mountains challenge in memory of my grandpa and those patients, many of whom I still remember. Please support the Dementia Experience with anything you can give. Those moments of happiness and optimism they bring to people are priceless."

*Clara Hebblethwaite: "I will be walking for the brave family members who give so much, and in honour of those they love living with dementia. My darling mum is the fuel to my fire!"

*Louise Rennie
*Alex Crammond
*Lilian Le Sage