Unforgettable evening promised to aid dementia research

A FIRST-of-its-kind fundraising event promises to be unforgettable while raising money for dementia research.

The Forget Me Not Ball will be held at 1915 Restaurant and Bar on October 19 and will foster a spirit of support and awareness of dementia in the Geelong community.

The event has been conceived by 10 local young professionals keen to make a difference in the lives of those dealing with neurological conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, Vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body disease.

Co-organiser Kate Ward said she found herself having conversations too often with people grappling with the challenges of dementia.

​About one in four Australians over the age of 70 are likely to be diagnosed with some form of the condition.

It is also the second leading cause of death in Australia, accounting for 9.1 per cent of all deaths.

Ms Ward said bringing together 10 relative strangers with unique stories and skillsets is likely to make the event unforgettable.

“We aim to make a difference by opening up early dialogue and advocating for greater awareness and understanding of the degenerative, terminal neurological disease that is dementia,” she said.

 

“Ultimately, we have found support in each other and would like to extend that support to other sons and daughters in the community if and when they encounter dementia.”

To be held in partnership with the Barwon Health Foundation, the event will have a cocktail-meets-Casino -Royale theme, with a formal dress code.

It will include cocktails, canapes, glamour and live music from DJ Tommy O and special guests.

The fundraising goal for the evening is $40,000.

​​”We strive to demystify the disease, promote open conversations, and support research to understand genetics and risk factors,” Ms Ward said.

“Our ultimate goal, though, is to avoid repeating our family history for ourselves and our families’ sake.”

Tickets are $195 and include canapes, wine, beer, cocktails, a grazing table, soft drinks and entertainment.

For more information, head to barwonhealthfoundation.org.au/event/forget-me-not-ball/forget-me-not-ball