Supporters across the UK have been raising awareness about Playlist for Life and the power of music for people living with dementia in various ways. From concerts to golf days, these fundraisers are vital to helping us keep our resources free for anyone who needs them.
One of our supporters, Harriet, recently took part in the Kiltwalk to raise money for our charity. The Kiltwalk is an annual event in Scotland where participants walk to raise money for Scottish charities and projects.
Harriet participated in the Edinburgh Kiltwalk with her friend Hazel and raised nearly £1,000 in sponsorship, which will go directly toward supporting people living with dementia through meaningful music.
Harriet chose to walk in aid of Playlist for Life after our founder Sally Magnusson appeared on Pointless Celebrities to raise money for our cause. Harriet’s father lived with dementia for 10 years and Harriet feels that because he was a music lover, music would have really helped him, and her mum, had they known about the benefits.
Harriet added:
My dad had dementia, and my husband’s dad had dementia. It was a long time ago, and there really wasn’t much support available and if there had been, it would have helped both our families, because, with dementia, while the person living with the condition struggles, the person looking after them struggles too. To have had something like music, which can bring back a spark, would have been amazing.
Ahead of Harriet taking part in the Kiltwalk, we provided her and Hazel with our exclusive What’s On Your Playlist t-shirts which proved to be the perfect conversation starters for them and their fellow Kiltwalkers.
Harriet said: “Because everyone wears their t-shirts, people were asking us what charity we were walking for so we were able to tell other walkers about Playlist and hear about the charities they were walking for.
“It’s a great atmosphere and they get you started with someone playing the bagpipes. We got to set off to I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers. It was a good day. Everyone was in good spirits.”
Harriet's personal playlist
Peter and the Wolf, Sergei Prokofiev
My dad played this record when my brother and I were small and we used to dance around the house to it.
Sunday Girl, Blondie
This song reminds me of growing up and listening to Blondie with my friends when we were in our teens.
Shiny Happy People, R.E.M.
I have memories of dancing to this tune on top of tables when I was in Italy after I left university.
The One, Elton John
This is a very special song for my husband, Tim, and I . It reminds me of when we met in 1994.
Once Upon a Time in the West (Main Theme), Ennio Morricone
This reminds me of music Tim and I still listen to today and of a concert we went to at The Barbican in the early 2000s when Ennio Morricone played there.
If you would like to support Playlist for Life and help people living with dementia, discover the many ways to fundraise or make a donation.