Kildare residents urged to take on the ‘31 Miles in May’ challenge to support dementia care

The Mater Hospital Foundation (MHF) is calling on people across County Kildare to lace up, head out and take on its new '31 Miles in May' challenge.

This challenge is a great opportunity for family members, friends, carers and anyone wanting to make a difference to get active for a good cause.

Taking time out to walk just one mile a day is beneficial for physical and mental well-being, and in the case of the challenge, it can be of real benefit to carers of people with dementia.

Commenting on the MHF's 31 Miles in May challenge, Mary Moorhead, the Chief Executive of the organisation, said: "Many of us are affected by dementia in our lifetime, whether that means facing dementia ourselves, or caring for a loved one with the condition.

"That Is why it is so important to work together to provide the very best support to those facing this journey in their lives.

"Here in the Mhf, we are committed to being there to support patients in the Hospital."

She added: "We hope you'll join us for this very special challenge for dementia care."

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FURTHER DETAILS

'31 Miles in May' is also a great way for companies to get their teams active and working together to raise vital funds in support of dementia care.

Getting involved couldn't be easier: Simply visit www.materfoundation.ie to register for your free challenge t-shirt (while stocks last), miles tracker and set up your fundraising page on either Facebook, Instagram or JustGiving.

In addition, you can join the exclusive '31 Miles in May' private Facebook group to connect with other challenge participants from across Ireland, to get inspired and stay motivated for your challenge.

Everyone who completes the challenge will receive a special MHF certificate to celebrate their achievement.

MHF supporters have already supported a number of initiatives to support dementia patients in the Mater Hospital, like refurbishing St Anne's Dementia Friendly Ward and funding the unique 'RITA' (Reminiscence / Rehabilitation and Interactive Therapy Activities) technology that helps patients remember and share events from their past.

Funds raised by the '31 Miles in May' challenge will be put to work where they are needed most to continue to make a real difference in the hospital.

To learn more and sign up for '31 Miles in May', simply visit the MHF website at www.materfoundation.ie, email contact@materfoundation.ie or call 01 830 3482.