London Marathon runner boosts funds for Scratby’s Wednesday Club
The Wednesday Club in Scratby, near Great Yarmouth which supports those affected with dementia, is appealing for people to sponsor London Marathon runner Stephen Ellis who is raising funds for the club.
Stephen’s father, David Ellis, 66, is a member of the club, run by Carers Trust Norfolk. David was diagnosed three years ago with fronto-temporal dementia, a rare strain of dementia that affects younger people.
David retired from Enfield, north London to Scratby with his wife Chris when the first symptoms developed. The area holds many special memories as he spent many childhood holidays in Norfolk and continued to take his own family there after he married.
The Wednesday Club is a social gathering for anyone wishing to share experiences and support those living with dementia and their family carers. A two-course hot meal is provided and outings are held throughout the year. David joined the club in 2014.
Stephen, 41, who lives in Hove, Sussex, said: “Dad isn’t able to communicate any more, but it is clear that when he is at the club that he does have a good time. Mum says it’s because he is looked after there, that there is a friendly atmosphere and the volunteers are kind, patient and attentive. It’s also a safe environment, and it’s somewhere they can go together, which is an added benefit.”
The group started in 2006 and has two long standing members of nearly ten years who lost their loved one to dementia during that time, but still attend the group because of the support they are given by everyone at The Wednesday Club.
Michelle Kirk, Care Manager for Carers Trust Norfolk, said, “We are thrilled that David gets so much pleasure from The Wednesday Club and that his son Stephen wants to raise money for us. We hope people will get behind Stephen and support him and the money that is raised will be go towards special opportunities for our members.”
Anyone who wishes to support Stephen in the London Marathon on Sunday 24 April, can donate on the Virgin Money Giving site, Running for The Wednesday Club:
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Steve_Ellis
Carers Trust Norfolk also supports family carers of all ages in a variety of other ways, such as practical and emotional support breaks for carers and care in their own home for people with needs, such as those living with dementia.
Anyone interested in joining the club can call Michelle on 01493 441222.
