Savage blow helps thousands with dementia

Footballer and columnist Robbie Savage has launched an autobiography detailing his years as a star footballer. Described as 'one of the most colourful and passionate characters in modern football', The Derby County Captain and former Welsh international has rushed forward the launch of his autobiography after his father Colin was diagnosed with Pick's disease, a type of dementia. Savage wants money from the sale of his book to go to Alzheimer's Society to help fund its research and services which help people with dementia. The new book was launched today at the home of Derby County Football Club, Pride Park.

Well known on and off the pitch for his daring and audacity, Savage has enjoyed a charismatic playing career which has made him into one of football's highest profile celebrities.

Footballer, presenter, columnist and now Alzheimer's Society supporter Robbie Savage says,

'Playing for clubs like Manchester United I've faced a lot of challenges on the pitch but watching my father and my hero diagnosed with dementia has been the biggest challenge of my life - I've never felt so helpless. That's why I'm donating money from the sale of my autobiography to Alzheimer's Society. The money will support hundreds of thousands of people to live a better life with dementia today and hopefully find a cure for tomorrow.'

Savage's father Colin (63) was diagnosed with Pick's disease approximately three years ago. A type of dementia, the condition gradually robs people of the ability to do tasks such as walk, talk, eat and dress themselves. Pick's disease usually affects the front part of the brain and early symptoms can include communication problems and personality changes. All types of dementia are progressive and eventually fatal.

Jo Swinhoe, Director of Fundraising and Marketing of Alzheimer's Society, says,

'Robbie's huge personality and amazing talent for football means he has some amazing stories to tell. But the other story is how he is using his fame to help vulnerable people with dementia and families. Sadly, there are so many families out there just like Robbie's. 750, 000 people in the UK have dementia and one in three people over 65 die with the condition. Alzheimer's Society needs vital funds to help support people today and fund a cure for tomorrow. We are incredibly grateful to Robbie.'

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Notes to editors:

• For further information please read Alzheimer's Society factsheet.
• Fronto-temporal dementia including Pick's disease is caused by damage to the front of the brain. These areas are responsible for our behaviour, emotional responses and language skills.
• Damage to the frontal and temporal lobe areas of the brain causes a variety of different symptoms. Each person will experience the condition in his or her own individual way, but there are some symptoms commonly experienced by people with the condition.
• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them. 
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk