Big-hearted Sheffield care home worker takes on fundraising challenge in tribute to mum

A Sheffield care home worker has taken part in a 5km Alzheimer’s Memory Walk in honour of her mother and residents she looks after.
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Joanna Macgregor has raised £315, surpassing her £200 goal, for the Alzheimer's Society to help make a difference to the lives of those affected by dementia.

Joanna is the activities coordinator at Bupa’s Broomcroft House on Ecclesall Road South and has worked there for two years.

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Having worked as a primary school teaching assistant for eight years, she changed career in 2017 after her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, aged 65.

Joanna Macgregor on her Alzheimer's Memory WalkJoanna Macgregor on her Alzheimer's Memory Walk
Joanna Macgregor on her Alzheimer's Memory Walk

Joanna wanted to find a new role where she could learn how to support the diagnosis and understand the disease.

She said: “I know first-hand how challenging the disease can be for both patents and those around them. After my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s I wanted to change my career path to support her, and now I am able to help many people living with this disease every day.

“We can all do our best to offer support and assistance but more research needs to be done so that less people have to go through this heartache, so any donations would mean the world.”

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Joanna said: “If the last four years working in elderly care has taught me anything, it is that a person is not defined by their dementia. In my role, I am able to build strong relationships with our residents and get to know all about their hobbies, families and life before moving to the home.

"Because of this, I can adapt activities to make them more inclusive and support everyone’s needs.”

Home manager Luke Owens said: “Joanna is an incredibly strong individual and we are very proud of her for taking on this challenge. It is clear how passionate she is about making a positive difference and how much she cares for the residents at our home.

“I’d like to encourage anyone who is inspired by her efforts to please donate, as it really could change lives for those in need.”

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Anyone looking to donate to Joanna’s cause can do so at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mw578535

For further information about Broomcroft House, visit https://www.bupa.co.uk/care-services