LOCAL fitness group SimplyFit Berkshire, who run classes throughout the Wokingham area, held their annual aerobathon for Twyford charity Understanding Dementia.
More than 100 keep fit enthusiasts filled the sports hall at Finchampstead Baptist Centre, performing grapevines, spotty dogs and box steps for two hours – to have fun, exercise and raise money.
Melissa Buckle, on the right who, with Alex and Jenny runs SimplyFit, said: It was amazing to have so many people here today raising money for charity.
“We’ve so far achieved nearly £2,000 already, with more donations coming in.
“It’s been such a lovely event and we can’t wait to do it again next year.”
Understanding Dementia aims to promote a clear understanding of the condition, its affects, and how to lessen its impact on those who live with it.
The group provides training for care workers, health professionals and family carers, adopting a simple approach that anyone can use.
Designed to help people think about the condition in a different way, the approach aims to help make caring for someone with dementia, whether at home or in residential care, a more positive experience for all.
Founder, CEO and lead trainer of the charity Shirley Pearce was at the event.
A retired dementia specialist occupational therapist, with years of experience working with families, in 2018 she identified a gap between dementia awareness and the way the condition affects people.
She said: “It’s been amazing to see everyone having a wonderful time raising money today.
“I’m really grateful to Melissa and her SimplyFit team for organising the event, to all those who helped set up, and to all the wonderful people who turned up.
“The money raised today will enable us to recruit more trainers, to enlarge the number of carers we can support.
“We provide training for family members whose relatives have dementia, both locally through Wokingham Borough Council, and on zoom.
“Getting a diagnosis can be difficult and stressful for families, so we are happy to work with them while they wait, as well as supporting those whose relatives have already been diagnosed.
“We never want to turn anyone away.”
SimplyFit Berkshire’s aerobathon closed with an energetic routine to Heather Small’s What Have You Done Today To Make You Feel Proud, promoting applause and a hall full of smiles.
The fitness group provides a range of exercise classes throughout the borough.
For more information, visit: understandingdementia.co.uk and simplyfitberkshire.co.uk
