Offaly family to complete Alzheimer’s Memory Walk in honour of their mother
An Offaly family are set to complete the Offaly Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva this year in honour of their mother Annette.
The Offaly Memory Walk will take place in Lough Boora Discovery Park on World Alzheimer's Day, Sunday, September 21.
Annette, a beloved mother, grandmother, and wife was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at just 61.
“When Annette was diagnosed, it felt like the ground shifted beneath our feet," said her daughter Denise.
"She wasn’t just a mother-in-law—she was the heartbeat of our family, the fun-loving nanny next door, and the woman who lit up every room with her humour and devilment.”
Now 69, Annette requires round-the-clock care, and the past three years have been particularly challenging for her family. Yet through the heartbreak, they’ve found moments of light—especially through the support of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s Birr Daycare Centre.
Before her diagnosis, Annette was devoted to her granddaughters Halle and Katie, arriving every Friday with gifts and laughter. But by the time her third granddaughter Aoibhe was born, subtle changes began to emerge.
Denise recalls: “When Aoibhe turned one, our suspicions were confirmed: Annette had early-onset Alzheimer’s. That moment marked the beginning of a new chapter—one filled with heartbreak, adjustment, and resilience.”
Three years ago, her grandson James was born. Though he adores his nanny, he will never truly know the vibrant woman she once was.
Despite the challenges, the Birr Daycare Centre has become a lifeline.
“Rosie, Amanda, and the entire team have wrapped our family in warmth and support, becoming an extension of our home. Their compassion and care have made an immeasurable difference—not just for Annette, but for all of us.”
To give back, the family organised Memory Walks in 2022 and again in 2024, raising funds directly for Birr Daycare. Annette now attends the centre three days a week, providing much-needed respite for her loved ones.
“We are deeply grateful to Birr Daycare and The Alzheimer Society of Ireland for walking this road with us. Their dedication has helped us navigate the hardest days and celebrate the small victories. Annette may not be the same, but her love endures. And through our efforts, we hope to raise awareness, foster understanding, and ensure that no family feels alone in this journey.”
Annette’s family—including her son Darrel, husband Noel, daughter-in-law Denise, and four grandchildren—will walk together in Offaly this September, keeping Annette’s spirit alive in every step.
Participants are invited to gather at the Ballycommon Cake House Café at Lough Boora Discovery Park before 11am, when the walk will commence.
There will be accessible walking routes suitable for all ages and abilities, making it a perfect day out for families, friends, and even four-legged companions.
With nearly 40 events taking place across Ireland, the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva is a powerful reminder of the strength found in community. Whether you walk in memory of a loved one, in support of someone living with dementia, or simply to show solidarity, your support makes a difference.
Register now at www.memorywalk.ie