Alzheimer's Society supporter in Wales leg of 5,000 mile coastline fundraising trek

Published 25 February 2011

An intrepid Alzheimer's Society supporter will be celebrating St David's Day in Swansea on Tuesday, 1 March, as he makes his way along a sponsored 5,000 mile walk around the United Kingdom.

Photo of Philip Williams who is undertaking the massive challeng of a sponsored 5,000 mile walk around the coast of the United Kingdom. He will be attending a reception at The Lodge in Garngoch Hospital at 9.30a.m on Tuesday to celebrate in true Welsh style. There he will be able to speak to carers, service users, volunteers and staff to see how valued the services are for which he is raising money. Staff and volunteers will then accompany him at the start of the next stage of his journey.

Philip Williams, 43, is hoping to raise £100,000 by completing the epic journey around the English, Welsh and Scottish coastlines. He has taken on the challenge as a tribute to his mother Margaret, 84, who has Alzheimer's disease.

Philip said:

'Since my mum was diagnosed with dementia seven years ago I have come to realise just how important Alzheimer's Society is. It has provided so much invaluable help and support to me, my mum and my whole family.

'This walk is my way of giving something back. It is the first time I have done anything on this scale so it has certainly been a challenge so far. However, it has been an amazing experience and I have met some incredible people. I am really looking forward to exploring the coast of Wales. Anyone who wants to come and say hello or help me towards my £100,000 target is most welcome.'

Philip, from London started his epic journey in Poole and over the past few months has passed through Portsmouth, Padstow and Falmouth among other places. Along the way he has stopped in at a number of Alzheimer's Society services meeting many people with dementia and their carers.

Jo Swinhoe, Director of Fundraising and Marketing at Alzheimer's Society said:

'We are delighted Philip has given so much time and energy in his mission to raise such a huge amount of money for Alzheimer's Society. His walk will not only raise much needed funds but will also help raise awareness of the Society all over the country.

'As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals like Philip to help people live well with dementia today and fund research to find a cure for tomorrow. One in three people over 65 will die with dementia. Please back Philip in his fundraising effort so we can continue leading the fight against dementia.'