After 15 years working for Alzheimer’s Nelson, Heather Lackner says she still gets surprised how many people don’t know their services exist.
From support groups, to community education – their goal is to break down the stigma associated with the condition, and support those living with it.
That’s why staff at Nelson Hospital have banded together to raise money for the organisation, so they can better promote their services.
Nurse Lucy Barron says it all started with a “vague idea” when she and some colleagues were out for dinner one night.
“We thought, ‘let’s do something to bring hospital employees together while supporting a local organisation’.”
So, they have planned a ‘springtime charity soiree’ for staff at the end of the month, which is being run on donations from local businesses.
All proceeds will go towards helping Alzheimer’s Nelson run their services.
“Because people are living longer now, we’re seeing dementia and Alzheimer’s more in the heath setting and it is something that families and people living with it are struggling to deal with,” says Lucy.
Heather says the support is very much appreciated.
“We have a small contract with the DHB, but we have to apply for grants and rely on memberships, donations and bequests. So, for an organisation to put on an event and donate the proceeds to us – that’s fantastic.”
If you can donate goods or money towards running the event, contact Lucy at [email protected]
