The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is proud to announce the first-ever Memory Walk in Ratoath, supported by Aviva, taking place on Sunday, 21st September at 12 noon, starting and finishing at SuperValu, Ratoath. This special event coincides this year with World Alzheimer’s Day, a global day of awareness and solidarity for those affected by dementia.

MEP Nina Carberry, co-chair of the Alzheimer’s Group in Europe, was on hand to help launch the Ratoath Memory Walk supported by Aviva and plans to join the walk on Sunday, 21st September for a cause deeply personal to her. Nina’s late father, legendary jockey and trainer Tommy Carberry, lived with dementia before his passing in 2017. Her mother Pamela is currently living with dementia and attends the Ratoath Social Club weekly, run by the local Alzheimer Society branch.

“I’m honoured to support the first ever Ratoath Memory Walk,” said MEP Nina Carberry. “This cause is incredibly close to my heart. The Alzheimer Society of Ireland has been a pillar of support for my family, and I’m proud to walk alongside others who understand the journey of dementia. Events like this help raise awareness, build community, and offer hope.”
The Ratoath Memory Walk supported by Aviva will be led by local Champion Laura Murphy, a long-time supporter of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. Laura has been instrumental in bringing the walk to her community and is passionate about making Ratoath a more dementia-inclusive village.

Nina Carberry pictured with Zoe Ryan and Laura Murphy (CEO Venue Theatre, Ratoath) at the launch of the Ratoath Alzheimer’s Memory Walk. Photos: David Mullen/www.cyberimages.net

“I am really looking forward to Ratoath’s inaugural Memory Walk,” said Laura Murphy. “People around the world in communities just like ours will come together to support those living with dementia and their loved ones. I am extremely humbled by the initial reaction and hope as many of our amazing clubs, associations, business groups, schools and individuals will walk together. Memory Walk is a chance to share memories and create new ones—it also reinforces our community’s commitment to becoming a dementia-friendly, inclusive village.”

Laura first got involved with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland in 2018 when her mother Jean passed away after living with dementia. Laura says of her mum, “she, with our Dad raised five independent daughters and she was the strongest most loving, giving person to have in your corner. It wasn’t until Alzheimer’s came to our door that I realised how many individuals are impacted by the disease and their families, who tend to become carers to their loved ones. Over the last number of years through volunteering I’ve witnessed the need for more supports & investment into research into this disease. It is days like the Memory Walk in September that provides communities like my own in Ratoath with the opportunity to walk together, to share experiences & raise not only funds but much needed awareness around dementia.”

Nina Carberry pictured with Ursula Ryan, Zoe Ryan, Rebecca Rogers, Isabel Daly (Ratoath Foróige), James and Monica Lynam (Ratoath Community Centre) and Laura Murphy (CEO Venue Theatre, Ratoath) at the launch of the Ratoath Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva.

Participants can register now at www.memorywalk.ie to take part in the 2km walk, which will feature live entertainment from local talents Rebecca Rodgers and The Ratoath Choir, as well as prize giveaways generously donated by community partners.
Also attending the launch was Colin Drummond, SuperValu Area Operations Manager for Meath, whose late grandmother lived with dementia.

“The Alzheimer Society of Ireland provided invaluable support to my family during a difficult time,” said Colin Drummond. “I’m proud to support the Ratoath Memory Walk and help raise awareness in our community. It’s a chance to give back and honour those we’ve loved.”

The Ratoath Memory Walk supported by Aviva is open to all—families, friends, carers, and anyone who wants to show their support. Whether you’re walking with, for or in memory of a loved one or simply standing in solidarity, this event is a celebration of connection, compassion, and community.
Register today at www.memorywalk.ie and join us on Sunday, 21st September at 12pm at SuperValu, Ratoath. Together, we walk. Together, we remember.
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#ASIMemoryWalk2025 #WalkWithAviva #ASIMakingMemories