Star of Network 10’s iconic Neighbours Takaya Honda is preparing to host the Hobart Memory Walk & Jog event for Dementia Australia on Sunday 22 March at the Regatta Grounds.
Mr Honda is no stranger to the Memory Walk & Jog series, having performed as Master of Ceremonies in other years in Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra.
Mr Honda committed to his role as a Dementia Australia Ambassador after his mother was diagnosed with younger onset dementia in her early 50s.
“My family has received such vital support from the community and from Dementia Australia, so I was keen to do whatever I could to get involved and help the cause,” Mr Honda said.
“Participating in events like Memory Walk & Jog provides an opportunity to help raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with dementia.
“I want to help ensure that everyone impacted by dementia is aware of and has access to the invaluable support that we received when my mum was diagnosed.”
Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said she was thrilled to welcome Mr Honda to the team for the day.
“We are delighted the event will be returning to Hobart,” Ms McCabe said.
“It is wonderful when our Dementia Australia Ambassadors and other high-profile supporters put their hands up to get involved.
“It all helps add to the experience and makes for an extra special day.”
Memory Walk & Jog is Dementia Australia’s largest fundraising initiative, and raises much-needed funds to help provide invaluable support, education and resources for people impacted by dementia in Tasmania and across Australia.
“As well, they’re fabulous gatherings of people impacted by dementia who get together, walk or run to raise money, share stories, and everyone comes away from the day knowing they are not alone,” Ms McCabe said.
Participants can take part as an individual or as part of a group, and can choose from either a 2km, 6km or 8km run, walk or jog. Attendees are invited to help Dementia Australia raise the target of $1.3 million across the national series of 12 events, which the organisation is hoping will involve more than 10,000 participants across the country.
Memory Walk & Jog is a fun event for all ages. The course is family-friendly, dog-friendly, and, no matter your age or level of fitness, everyone is encouraged to participate and join in the fun. There will be prizes for the top fundraisers, as well as raffles, plenty of entertainment, food stalls and special guest appearances from Memory Walk & Jog mascot Al the Elephant.
Registration is open for all Memory Walk & Jog 2020 events. Register today or find out about other events happening around the country by visiting memorywalk.com.au
Dementia Australia is the national peak body and charity for people, of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, their families and carers. It provides advocacy, support services, education and information. An estimated 447,000 people have dementia in Australia. This number is projected to reach almost 1.1 million by 2058. Dementia Australia is the new voice of Alzheimer’s Australia. Dementia Australia’s services are supported by the Australian Government.
National Dementia Helpline: 1800 100 500
An interpreter service is available
