Bristol Schoolboy cycles and walks a marathon in the name of dementia

Joe Hedger, 15 of Westbury in Trym in Bristol completed a major challenge in cycling 58 Miles from Bristol to Stonehenge and then completing the 26 Marathon Memory Walk.

Joe, 15, a pupil at St Katherine’s School in Pill was inspired to support the Alzheimer’s Society and complete the Memory Walk Marathon last weekend, a 26 mile trek which begins at Stonehenge. However, instead of conserving their energy and taking a leisurely drive to Stonehenge, Joe and the team cycled the 50 miles to the start line.

Joe’s grandmother has lived with the disease for several years and is in a home near Plymouth. ‘She lives in a great home and I love going to see her, though it can sometimes be difficult.’ Joe said. ‘She gets a little confused though rather than correcting her all the time, I just go with her and it seems to help her stay happy.’ Joe jumped at the chance to join the Windmill Care Team in the challenge to cycle to Stonehenge before undertaking the Marathon Walk and to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society. ‘Whilst keeping Nanny happy is our aim there are many others who are not so lucky’ he said. ‘The disease is shocking and seems relentless - however with the right support, help and understanding, life can be positive and stimulating and those living with the condition can stay in their own homes as long as possible. I hope what we raise will make a difference.’ He has been successful, as so far the team have raised over £2000 for this vital cause.

Joe is in Year 11 at St Katherine’s School in Pill and has enrolled on the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme and will be undertaking a long hike next week as part of his tasks.

Memory Walk 2012 was held in partnership with Bupa Care Homes. Together, Alzheimer’s Society and Bupa aim to support more people living with dementia through the vital funds that are raised.

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