Wales will face England at Wembley next week and the Football Association of Wales have announced a special initiative involving people living with dementia
Wales and England players will be accompanied onto the Wembley pitch by people living with dementia for their international friendly next week.
This joint initiative between the Football Association of Wales, the FA and the Alzheimer’s Society will see 22 nominated supporters with dementia replace the traditional child mascots, standing alongside the players during the national anthems to raise awareness of the condition.
In a symbolic act to highlight memory loss – a common symptom of dementia – the Welsh players will remove their names from their shirts for the second half of the match.
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Craig Bellamy’s squad will face their long-standing rivals before a crucial World Cup qualifier against Belgium in Cardiff just four days later. This particular match between Wales and England holds special significance for families affected by dementia.
Among those stepping onto the Wembley pitch will be life-long Cardiff City fan Chris Griffiths, who has been actively involved with Cardiff City Foundation’s 1927 Club, a support group for people living with dementia, reports Wales Online.
“Football in general has been a big part of his life and I think it helps bond everybody together and gives them something to talk about,” said Lee, Chris’ son.
“I think that’s what he values as much as anything, everyone just being together and enjoying whatever event it is.
“It was a shock prior to the diagnosis, but as you can see he’s still full of fun, and we’re really grateful for the experience he’s going to have up in Wembley.”
FAW CEO Noel Mooney revealed they were delighted to support the charity alongside the FA in raising awareness during such a momentous occasion.
Mooney explained: “At the FAW, we believe football has the unique power to bring people together, to unite communities, and to shine a light on important issues like dementia. That’s why we are proud to stand alongside the Alzheimer’s Society and the Football Association in this historic moment at Wembley.
“By walking out with fans living with dementia, we send a clear message that nobody should face dementia alone. It takes a united team, on and off the pitch, to provide the care, compassion, and understanding needed to support those affected by this condition.
“We encourage everyone to join us in supporting this cause, helping to raise awareness, funds, and hope for the future of all those affected. Together, we can make a difference.”
Alex Hyde-Smith, chief marketing officer at Alzheimer’s Society, continued: “This year’s Alzheimer’s Society International promises to be a historic night, showcasing so many different experiences of dementia and providing a special moment for our mascots and their families.
“We know beating dementia will require the ultimate team effort, and football is the ultimate team game. Players need their team-mates, coaching staff and fans to support them, and likewise, people affected by dementia need a team of family, carers and doctors. It will take a society to beat dementia and, as with any successful team, we all have a role to play.”
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