A dedicated carer from Garforth has raised more than £1,500 for the Alzheimer's Society after completing a demanding 26-mile walk through the Yorkshire Dales.
A personal mission
Tracey Tarpey, 42, who has worked at Springfield Care Home in Garforth for the past 11 years, took on the gruelling challenge alongside her husband. The determined couple completed the lengthy and picturesque route in 10 hours and 44 minutes.
For Tracey, who has spent 24 years working in the care sector, supporting the charity is a deeply personal mission. She sadly lost her grandmother to Alzheimer's disease 19 years ago, and her uncle has also recently been diagnosed with the condition.
Having witnessed the devastating impact of dementia both professionally and personally, Tracey was determined to do her part to support the charity's vital work.
Close to the heart
Tracey said: "Alzheimer's Society is a charity that is very close to my heart. 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."
The committed carer knows exactly how difficult the condition can be for families to witness.
Tracey added: "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."
The challenge
Despite the early start and the physical toll of the journey, the positive atmosphere on the day helped the walkers push through. Reflecting on the challenge itself, Tracey added: "It was an early start at 6am. I'm not good with early mornings, but there was a nice buzz in the air and everyone was happy and smiley, even at that time of day. 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 incredible fundraising total will now help the Alzheimer's Society continue supporting people living with dementia. The money will also fund vital research into new treatments and, ultimately, a cure for the condition.
