Janine GriffithsA Garforth care worker has raised more than £1,500 for Alzheimer’s Society after completing a 26-mile walk through the Yorkshire Dales.
Tracey Tarpey, 42, who has worked at Springfield Care Home in Garforth for 11 years, took on the challenge with her husband, completing the route in 10 hours and 44 minutes.
The fundraiser was inspired by both her professional experience and personal connection to dementia. Tracey has spent 24 years working in the care sector and supports people living with dementia every day through her role.
She also lost her grandmother to Alzheimer’s disease nearly two decades ago, while her uncle has recently been diagnosed with the condition.
Tracey said the charity’s work is particularly important to her because she has seen first-hand how dementia affects individuals and their families.
“Alzheimer’s Society is a charity that is very close to my heart,” she said, adding: “I look after people living with dementia every day through my work, and I know first-hand the pain and suffering the disease causes to those it affects and to their families and loved ones.
“To be able to do my bit to support the charity and help fund research towards a cure means a great deal to me. Alzheimer’s robs people of memories with loved ones, no matter who is around you to help them remember those memories. Seeing that happen is heartbreaking, both as a carer and as a family member.”
She described dementia as a condition that takes away treasured memories and said witnessing that loss can be devastating for both relatives and carers.
Reflecting on the walk, Tracey said participants set off at 6am and were greeted by a positive atmosphere despite the early start.
“There was a nice buzz in the air and everyone was happy and smiley, even at that time of day,” she said.
Although the route proved demanding, with steep climbs and descents along the way, Tracey said the cause kept her motivated throughout the challenge, adding: “It was a hard walk and very challenging at times with the steep hills, both up and down, but knowing I was raising money for such an important cause kept me going.”
The money raised will help Alzheimer’s Society continue supporting people affected by dementia and contribute towards research into future treatments and a cure.
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