Royalty, celebrities and people with dementia celebrate Alzheimer's Society official office opening
Published 2 May 2008
HRH Princess Alexandra will meet people with dementia, carers, volunteers and staff from Alzheimer's Society to celebrate the opening of the charity's central office in London.
Alastair Balls CB, Alzheimer's Society chairman, says,
We are thrilled that Alzheimer's Society's Royal Patron, HRH Princess Alexandra is opening our central office. Every day across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, thousands of staff, volunteers, people with dementia and their carers are leading the fight against dementia. Our central office is home to the national dementia helpline, the Dementia Knowledge Centre and provides support to 240 branches nationwide.
This event will be a unique opportunity for us to reflect on achievements and look ahead to our continued work to care for people today and find a cure for tomorrow.
HRH Princess Alexandra will also unveil a painting by artist William Scott, CBE, RA (1913 - 1989). Mr Scott lived with Alzheimer's disease in the final years of his life and following his death a foundation was set up, with all royalties donated to Alzheimer's Society's research work. The artist's son Robert Scott will be among Alzheimer's Society Vice Presidents, Patrons and Ambassadors, present as the work goes on show.
Actors Kevin Whately, Richard Briers and actress Britt Ekland, are among supporters from the world of arts, science, politics and business also attending, after joining the charity in the fight against dementia.
Ambassadors from the charity's Living With Dementia group will join today's ceremony. This is a nationwide network of people with dementia set up to involve those affected by the condition in all aspects of the charity's work.
Bill Wilson, an Alzheimer's Society ambassador, from Coventry, says,
It is fantastic to come along today and meet so many people involved with the Alzheimer's Society. Dementia affects the whole family and those diagnosed need to be given the same priority as people with other serious conditions. Dementia should no longer be the forgotten illness.
Actor, Richard Briers, Alzheimer's Society Ambassador says,
Playing the role of someone whose wife had Alzheimer's disease gave me insight into how devastating it can be for the person who has dementia - and for their families. Alzheimer's Society campaigns for and champions the rights of people living with dementia and the people who care for him. I am committed to supporting them in leading the fight against this devastating condition.
