Recently, I watched The Notebook—a poignant reminder of the precious memories we hold dear. It moved me deeply and inspired me to take action for a cause close to my heart: supporting those affected by dementia and memory concerns.
On Saturday 14th September, I embarked on a journey up Cat Bells, overlooking Lake Derwentwater in the beautiful Lake District, to raise funds for the older people’s charity, Regenerage.
For 43 years, Regenerage has helped older people to live and age well—enabling individuals to live with memory concerns and dementia, reduce loneliness and isolation, and remain active to promote healthy ageing.
Words from a family member of a service user still ring in my ears:
“I have seen a dramatic change in Dad’s life since becoming a regular at Regenerage Charnley Fold Activity Day Centre—happy and smiling again. He looked forward to going each day and fully involved himself in all of the varying activities.
Dad recognised the different levels of ‘memory concern’ within each of the attendees. He enjoyed helping and nurturing others, loved engaging with them over lunch, and bonded across the five days with many. He delighted in the interactive sessions, the games, and never missed a chance for a jolly old sing-song. There was an enormous sense of togetherness each day throughout the groups.
I would like to thank Regenerage and all of the staff and attendees at Charnley Fold for encouraging my Dad to continue being such a happy and loving person in his older years.”
Every step I took up Cat Bells was dedicated to those whose memories are fading, and to the families who support them so selflessly and tirelessly.
Why did I do this? Because everyone deserves to cherish their memories. I believed—and still believe—that by coming together, we can make a real difference. Whether people joined me on the hike or supported from afar, every contribution helped fund vital, ongoing support services offered by Regenerage and raised awareness for this important cause and charity.
We climbed Cat Bells—and we made memories matter.
Thank you to everyone who supported me, Lisa Harrison, in my fundraising efforts. Every penny raised is going towards enabling Regenerage to continue the amazing work they do—so that older people thrive, living vibrant and fulfilled lives.
Lisa raised £500
