Walking in memory of mum

Natasha’s story

“My mum Lily was an amazing person who was dedicated to her family. She had a lot of health issues throughout her life – she was registered blind and was type 1 diabetic, amongst other things. But she never let it hold her back.

“She loved bowling and I have fond memories of her taking her guide dog and going down to play at the local centre with other visually impaired bowlers. I would often watch from the sidelines alongside all the players’ guide dogs.

“We started noticing issues with mum’s memory and she was eventually diagnosed with vascular dementia.

“My sister Nassreen and I supported her to stay in her own home for as long as we could, but as her dementia progressed she had to move into a care home. She passed away in 2022 aged 79.

“She was always such an independent and strong person and if I could be even half the woman my mum was, I’d be happy.

“When I heard that the memory walk would be taking place in Aberdeen, I thought it would be a lovely thing to do with my girls – Lilly, 15 and Kaela, 11 – and my sister in memory of mum.

“The charity do such great work and we hope to raise some money to help support them.

“I was always a keen runner but in the past few years I’ve had both my knees partially replaced so that’s really limited what I can do. The walk will be a challenge for me but with the four of us doing it together, we will all push each other on.

“We’re looking forward to the day and I know mum will be looking down, proud of us all.”

Massive thank you to Natasha for sharing her story in memory of her mum Lily.

Our next Memory Walk takes place in Aberdeen on Sunday 24 August, followed by Glasgow on Sunday 7 September and Edinburgh on Sunday 26 October.

Be part of something special and walk with us to support people living with dementia. Sign up today here.