Bayside Health Service staff swapped their uniforms for colourful costumes to support people living with dementia, raising more than $1100 at this year's Dementia Australia Memory Walk & Jog.
Six staff members took part in the annual event, marking the fourth consecutive year Bayside Health Service has supported the fundraiser. Together, the team has raised almost $6000 over the past four years!
Memory Walk & Jog Team Leader Emma Butler said caring for people living with dementia had been a passion throughout her nursing career.
"I have always been passionate about improving care for older people. These people have been members of our communities, they have survived wars, they have so much wisdom and so many stories to tell," Emma said. "It's difficult to watch someone slowly lose their memory and their sense of identity so to make someone smile who has to live with dementia is what makes my job worthwhile."
Emma said the event brought together people from all walks of life.
"The atmosphere was amazing. There were so many people joining together for one great cause," she said. "Our costumes really stood out and we got a few laughs. We ended up in lots of photographs with people we had never met before."
Emma said community awareness and support would become increasingly important as Australia's population aged.
“For families living with dementia, you are not alone," she said. "We see how much you do for your loved ones and the challenges that come with caring for someone with dementia.”
Dementia Australia offers valuable support and guidance, and community fundraising helps ensure those services remain available.