Cycling World Champion rides for dementia

MEDIA RELEASE

16 March 2015

Cycling World Champion rides for dementia

Cycling World Champion and Commonwealth Games medallist Eddie Dawkins is swapping his bike for a Harley-Davidson this week and leading a motorcycle rally to raise awareness of dementia.

Dawkins, who will be accompanied by his coach and recent Halberg Award winner Anthony Peden, will lead the rally from Auckland to Taupo via the Bay of Plenty region in support of Alzheimers New Zealand from 20-21 March. Public events will be held in towns and cities along the way.

Two of Eddie’s grandparents have been affected by dementia, making him one of the 2 out of every 3 New Zealanders who know or have known someone with the condition. It is estimated that around 53,000 New Zealanders have dementia, a number that is forecast to triple to around 150,000 by 2050 as the population ages.

“Dementia has had a big impact on my family and it was important for me to be able to do something like this to help New Zealanders understand more about dementia,” Eddie says.

“In particular I’m keen to let New Zealanders know that there are things they can do to reduce their risk of developing dementia, by eating well, keeping active, and staying engaged in their communities.”

Catherine Hall, Alzheimers NZ Executive Director, says Alzheimers NZ is excited to be involved with Eddie’s motorcycle rally and is encouraging New Zealanders to support him in his efforts to raise awareness of dementia.

“Dementia is one of New Zealand’s most significant and growing healthcare challenges,” she says.

“It’s important for New Zealanders to understand more about the dementia, so they can recognise the early warning signs and get support if it affects them or someone they know, and so that people with dementia can remain actively engaged in their communities for as long as possible.”

She says Eddie’s motorcycle rally is an important part of Alzheimers NZ’s About Dementia campaign, which was launched by Alzheimers NZ in late August. The campaign encourages New Zealanders to find out more about dementia.

“We’re encouraging Kiwis to come along and support Eddie on the rally, and to find out more about dementia and the About Dementia campaign at www.aboutdementia.org.nz

For more about Eddie Dawkins’ Ride for Dementia visit www.alzheimers.org.nz.

Any motorcyclists wanting to join the rally should email comms@alzheimers.org.nz or call 04 387 8264.

Anyone worried that they or someone they know is showing signs of dementia should contact their GP for a full assessment. For support and education people can contact their local Alzheimers organisation on 0800 004 001.

-ends-

© Scoop Media